Young Adult Authors Unplugged From Arroe Collins

Anyone who grew up as a “good kid” likely heard constant praise from the adults around them: “a delight to have in class,” “an old soul,” “so mature for their age.” Quiet, responsible, disciplined, and easygoing, these children are what many parents strive to raise—and when they succeed, both parent and child are rewarded with approval.But because these “good kids” appear so self-sufficient, few people think to check in on them. While they may seem to raise themselves, many are quietly struggling with perfectionism, overachieving, people-pleasing, and hyper-vigilance.In GOOD KIDS: Why You Suffered in Silence and How to Break the Cycle (Sheldon Press/Hachette UK; on sale 1/27/26), trauma therapist and parenting expert Maggie Nick explores how these children often grow into anxious, self-doubting adults. Through an accessible exploration of relational shame trauma, Nick reveals why “good kids” learn to bottle their emotions, seek constant approval, and fear being a burden—patterns that can persist well into adulthood.A recovering “good kid” herself, Nick understands firsthand how this pressure builds over time—and how it can be unlearned. Drawing on research and years of clinical experience counseling countless recovering “good kids,” she offers practical tools for parents and adult “good kids” alike to identify harmful patterns, break generational cycles of toxic parenting, and cultivate self-compassion, emotional safety, and authentic connection.

Those unrecognized moments when Fall is setting in and again this year you woke up not realizing the leaves have fallen from the trees. A major part of the story is now missing from your moments of all things right now.

This highly anticipated 20th installment is signature Berry, an unputdownable tale steeped in real history and locations – including a kidnapped Swedish princess, a precious medieval book with a controversial backstory, unforgettable and atmospheric locations across Stockholm and Sweden, cat-and-mouse spy games involving elite agents from the US and Russia, and so much more. When the younger sister of Sweden’s King Wilhelm I is kidnapped, former Justice Department operative, Cotton Malone, is called in to quietly investigate before the public finds out. The ransom demand? An 800-year-old book – the Codex Gigas – the largest illuminated medieval manuscript in the world that has been kept in Stockholm for nearly 400 years. Along the way it has also acquired another more mysterious moniker... The Devil’s Bible. But there’s a problem: to gain entrance to NATO to protect themselves from an increasingly hostile Russia, Sweden has already agreed to return the Codex Gigas to the Czech Republic to secure their holdout vote towards membership, something Russia will do anything to prevent. It’s up to Cotton Malone and his associate Cassiopeia Vitt to locate the king’s sister, secure the codex, thwart the Russians and most of all, diffuse what could be an explosive international situation. Trusted allies become hostile enemies, long-standing enemies suddenly shift into partners, and nothing is as it seems. In the end, Cotton and Cassiopeia come face-to-face with the unthinkable, changing both of their lives forever.

Seasons speed past us beyond how light is measured. How would you best explore this thing called spring? Is it the birth of or the rebirth of?

Diana Spencer's life seemed like a fairy tale, especially when she married the future king of England and became an actual princess. But in reality, things were difficult from a very young age. Diana's love for her sons and her belief in kindness and giving kept her strong. Her hard work on behalf of so many suffering people around the world will be forever remembered.This friendly, fun biography series inspired by the PBS Kids TV show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum follows one great role model at a time, and encourages kids to dream big.Included in each book are:A timeline of key events in the hero's historyPhotos that bring the story more fully to lifeComic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorableChildhood moments that influenced the heroesFacts that make great conversation-startersA virtue these heroes embody: This book highlights Diana's empathy and her generosity toward strangers.You'll want to collect each book in this dynamic, informative series

Thanks for being part of the conversation I am the Poet In The Forest. A children series I penned out in the 1990s. None of it would be possible if it wasn’t for this forest in South Charlotte, NC. I talk about it so much that I thought maybe it’s time you get to meet all that inspires me. Thanks for being part of the conversation

Every forest has a story. So many of them are missing from the making of a new tomorrow. Ernie was and still is a huge part of my love for writing inside this collection of trees. Now that his body has been returned to the soil, what's next?

We’ve all read the book where the world is ending, but the last-second actions of our hero save the day. But…what happens next? “Almost the End of the World” attempts to answer that question. Personally, I think that the real apocalypse would be after the asteroid missed. The book follows Corey Walker, an 18-year-old who is ready to die. When last-second heroics save the world, Corey tries to return to his real life. However, the world is a wreck – economies are broken, millions are dead, and people aren’t ready to live again. Meanwhile, Corey’s school has been invaded by a strange cult, The Refuge, which targets the most vulnerable students on campus. Corey and his friends push back against the cult – making themselves a target in the process. The book tries to answer key questions that I think are deeply relevant to teenagers and young adults today. Chief among them is this: What are you willing to fight for? How far will you go to protect people you love? This book will be available for pre-sale shortly and will be released on June 9. It’s my third book and second YA novel. You can find more info on me at my website: http://www.mikeschlossbergauthor.com.

A walk through the forest, a park or on a city street and you realize you forgot the doggie bags. Do you leave it for others to pick up on their shoes or do you pick it up with your hands?

The follow-up to the highly acclaimed, instant bestseller The Three Billy Goats Gruff The second in the groundbreaking new collection of masterfully retold fairy tales crafted by one of today’s most celebrated and esteemed authors, Mac Barnett, paired with the stunning illustrations of the acclaimed creator, Carson Ellis. Once upon a time there was a clever girl with a not-so-clever father. When her father claims she can spin straw into gold, the king forces the girl to perform this impossible task. She has no other choice than to accept a strange deal from a mysterious little man. But when he arrives and attempts to collect the debt, the fiendish trickster Rumpelstiltskin discovers that he is the one who has been tricked! With Barnett’s signature pacing and wit, his subversive storytelling style and narrative voice, and Ellis’s stunning folk-art style, this retelling of Rumpelstiltskin will introduce this classic story to a new generation of readers! There’s been a number of studies on the importance of fairy tales for kids. They spark imagination and inspire a lifelong love of reading. They showcase problem solving and teamwork skills. They establish a child’s vocabulary through new language acquisition. They teach kids about complex emotions and help readers to develop empathy for a wide range of people—fairy tales are essential to children! Mac wanted to respect the original tale while bringing the ideas presented into the modern age: Mac and Carson are the perfect pairing for RUMPELSTILTSKIN. Carson is a Caldecott Honor winner and a New York Times bestseller. Of creating the art for this stunning book, she says, “Rumpelstiltskin has endured for centuries because it’s a great story—the tale of a magical impish villain, a mistreated maiden, and her ultimate revenge.

Every forest has a story. So many of them are missing from the making of a new tomorrow. Ernie was and still is a huge part of my love for writing inside this collection of trees. Now that his body has been returned to the soil, what's next?

Join Chet the dog, “the most lovable narrator in all of fiction” (Boston Globe), and his human partner Bernie as they scramble to solve a case exposing the dark side of internet fame.Chet the dog is less than enthusiastic about the Little Detective Agency’s next case. Chet and his human partner, PI Bernie Little, have been hired to find a missing person—only the missing person is a cat. Miss Kitty, an internet sensation, has disappeared, and Chet and Bernie have been hired to find her before her many followers realize something is wrong.Miss Kitty belongs to Bitty, a sweet teenage girl who lives with her mom. Bitty and her mother are struggling financially, but the arrival of Miss Kitty and the chance discovery of her social media appeal has changed everything. Bitty now has sponsors, a high-powered agent, and all the tools needed to thrive online, and real money is flowing in. At least, it was. With Miss Kitty gone, the family’s income is on the line.The case presents a slew of challenges for Chet and Bernie. For one thing, a potential witness is a pig named Senor Piggy who may be in possession of an important piece of evidence. For another, it seems like a possible perp has been killed twice—and there’s evidence implicating Bernie in the crime.

In the bestselling and beloved First 100 Words format, this charming board book includes sturdy pages packed with 100 words to introduce little ones to all the loving ways to say, "I love you". From care to share, to kisses and cuddles, these 100 words are easy to learn, making this the perfect primer for kids learning their first words. With bold and vibrant artwork featuring Sandra Magsamen’s adorable, wide-eyed animal characters on every page, babies and toddlers will enjoy reading these words again and again, making it ideal for bedtime read-alouds!

In a bold anthem, Rise, Girl, Rise, feminist organizer Gloria Steinem and Nobel Peace Prize winner Leymah Gbowee share their parallel journeys as activists. This picture book for children is told through alternating points of view and culminating in a powerful collective “we,” celebrating resilience and empowerment to inspire girls everywhere to raise their voices, stand together, and rise up for themselves and others. “A visually powerful feminist primer that inspires emotion…” --Kirkus “Highlighting the twinned stories of their egalitarian awakenings, the authors emphasize the importance of sisterhood in this persuasively rallying work.”-- Publishers Weekly Gloria and Leymah share personal stories of growing up in vastly different parts of the world, each confronting the injustices faced by girls and women in their communities. Their experiences—shaped by courage, conviction, and a deep desire for change—led them to become fierce advocates for equality.

Andrew Fechmeier is a master at hiding. He'd better be—he’s spent decades concealing a secret that could get him killed. So when he’s diagnosed with a terminal disease, he heads for the local funeral home carrying the blue suit he eventually wants to be buried in. But what no one knows is that Fechmeier secretly tucked something inside, turning the suit into a final, untraceable hiding spot. It's a perfect plan. Until Fetch is brutally murdered by a mysterious killer who will stop at nothing to find the priceless object hidden in the suit.What follows is the best-reviewed book of Brad’s career—a gripping plot filled with twists and turns, and the character everyone calls his Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. If you’ve never read Zig and Nola, this is the perfect jumping on point.

The way mother nature toys with our imagination. Starting first with weather. A Cold December day that looks, feels and smells like snow. It didn't. But in less than 30 days ice storms and 11 inches of snow pummeled this collection of trees.

Founded in 2002, National Puzzle Day is a way to share enjoyment of puzzles and 2026 promises to continue the fun tradition, with Highlights Puzzle Parties, a nationwide series of hands-on family events leading up to National Puzzle Day on January 29TH. Beginning in early January, more than 500 Barnes & Noble stores, schools, and libraries across the U.S. will host free community puzzle parties featuring Highlights’ newest puzzle collection, Puzzle-A-Day Challenge: Bite-Size Puzzles All Year Long. Kids and families can dive into a variety of brain-boosting, laugh-inducing activities and fun giveaways. Puzzle-A-Day Challenge, offers 365 bite-size puzzles—one for every day of the year—designed to challenge kids’ brains in just a few minutes a day. Doing puzzles regularly is more than just play—it’s a powerful way to support children’s learning, emotional development, and social skills. Puzzles can:Build early problem-solving skillsStrengthen memory and attentionReinforce math and reasoning skillsBuild patience and perseveranceEncourage cooperation and teamwork

All these years in this forest and somehow every family had a different name to this lake. Swan? Silver? Now Ivey? What should we know about this body of water?

The typically peace filled daily walk through the forest has put Jazzie and I face to face with true crime. Who killed the opossum? The blood, the blunt hit, the way the body is positioned. We have a true crime scene inside Ernie's forest.

This stunning graphic novel by Shannon Messenger, is a retelling of the second half of the thrilling first novel. KEEPER OF THE LOST CITIES: THE GRAPHIC NOVEL PART 2, comes to life with all the adventure and epic worldbuilding the Keeper of the Lost Cities series is known for. After learning she’s actually an elf, twelve-year-old Sophie Foster made the impossible decision to leave her human life—and family—behind and start over in the Lost Cities. And life with the elves has been unlike anything Sophie has ever known, filled with new friends, amazing creatures, and incredible powers. But it’s also had its share of challenges. Sophie had been an advanced student in the human world—but thanks to her struggles with alchemy, she’s not even sure if she will pass her Foxfire Academy midterms! And then there are the bigger worries. Guardians who may or may not adopt her. Whispers of conspiracies. Mysterious fires. Memories in her brain that don’t feel like hers. Could someone have hidden those secrets in Sophie’s head? Why would they do that? Is Sophie part of something much bigger than she imagined? Something…deadly?

I’m always asking questions. The fun begins when you start researching for answers. Such as… Who did it first…the art of breaking the 4th wall…was it George Burns and Gracie Allen or the movie The Spinal Tap? Plus…was Gracie Allen’s character inspired and influenced by the children’s book Amelia Bedelia? I’m Arroe… I am a daily writer. A silent wolf. I stand on the sidelines and do nothing but watch, listen study then activate. I call it The Daily Mess. A chronological walk through an everyday world. Yes, it’s my morning writing. As a receiver of thoughts and ideas, we as people tend to throw it to the side and deal with it later. When a subject arrives, I dig in. It’s still keeping a journal! By doing the research the picture becomes clearer. This is the Daily Mess…

Rusty, who worked in Hollywood for nearly four decades, mostly as a freelance television producer for some of television’s longest-running, all-time rated reality shows, as well as on movies like Terminator 2 as an electrician, knows how to entertain people. He applies that experience to penning informative and entertaining illustrated children’s books of poetry.Since retiring in 2018, he has had six books published, including a memoir, one on baseball history, and four children’s books. His nephew illustrated two of the children’s books, while another nephew did another, and his newest book, An Awesome Bird, The Pelican, was illustrated entirely by seventh and eight graders attending his local middle school in California.“I try to include in the poems some facts about where the animals live, what they eat, and what they look like,” says Rusty. “I try to use new words and concepts so the readers learn something new. For example, a Caiman has a nictitating membrane and the Brown Bat uses echolocation to navigate in the dark.”

Why now?:The #1 New York Times bestselling series, Dork Diaries, now has dazzling, full-color illustrations for a new generation of middle-grade readers. Rachel Renee Russell and her daughter Nikki Russell, who illustrates the series, are on a mission to encourage kids to embrace their individuality, and to inspire them to be strong and have self confidence in the face of adversity. Rachel knows that humor can be a band-aid to help emotional wounds heal, that it can provide temporary relief from stress and worry—and in some cases even provide hope. Rachel Renee Russell and Nikki Russell are keenly aware of what kids today want. They set a new direction for illustrated middle grade books when the series was initially introduced, and now that kids today are more visual readers, they are giving readers a full color edition making this a fresh new take on this contemporary classic story about how difficult middle school can be. Rachel’s daughters were actually the inspiration for the series. They were bullied and teased, and had a really hard time fitting in during middle school – something I think any parent of a tween can relate to. One morning one of her daughters had enough and said “You know what? I'm proud to be a dork, being a dork is cool!” Rachel took the negative meaning behind that word and turned it into something positive. And she used that concept and channeled it into Dork Diaries.

Author, inventor, and co-writer of the iconic Star Trek episode “The Tholian Web,” Chester L. Richards continues his acclaimed Treks Beyond the Great Potato memoir series with "The Trek Continues: More Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist," releasing worldwide October 7, 2025.In this second volume, Richards expands on the journey he began in From the Potato to Star Trek and Beyond, blending pulse-pounding adventure with poignant reflections on life, love, and loss. From near-death experiences with crocodiles in Africa to a white-knuckle flight back home in California, The Trek Continues dives deep into the real-life escapades of a man who helped imagine the universe onscreen—and then went out and lived it.Richards shares what it meant to survive, to grieve, and to grow. Central to the memoir is his late wife Sarah, a brilliant and spirited presence readers first glimpsed in Book 1. Responding to fan letters asking to learn more about her, Richards infuses this new collection with her voice, her stories, and the extraordinary impact she had on his life. There are also stories of eccentric animals (including cats, a dog named Hector, and a horse—almost), scientific breakthroughs in aerospace and on earth, close calls with Neolithic tribes, and the unexpected wisdom of failure.“Every story is a letter of love to Sarah,” Richards writes. “Each stand on its own. Each is an adventure. And each is true.”Known for his witty, self-deprecating style and cinematic detail, Richards proves again that memoir can be both thrilling and intimate. A scientist by training and adventurer by instinct, he invites readers to see life not as a linear path—but as a series of treks, each one worth telling.“Adventure starts when your gut clenches and you do it anyway,” says Richards. “That’s when you find out who you really are.”The Trek Continues: More Memoirs of a Rocket Scientist is published by Pawpress. The book is now available in paperback, hardcover, and eBook for pre-order on Amazon. Advanced review copies may be requested through NetGalley.

Thanks for being part of the conversation I am the Poet In The Forest. A children series I penned out in the 1990s. None of it would be possible if it wasn’t for this forest in South Charlotte, NC. I talk about it so much that I thought maybe it’s time you get to meet all that inspires me. Thanks for being part of the conversation

A deadly hit-and-run shatters a quiet Connecticut town— and Hannah can't shake the chilling feeling that she knows who's behind the wheel. It might be her brother, Rob. It might be Zach—Rob’s best friend and the first boy who’s ever really seen her. And the truth might destroy her life. As the police close in, Hannah falls deeper in love with Zach and spirals into a web of lies to protect the people she loves. However, when her friends turn cold, and a buried family secret comes to light, she realizes the truth is far more dangerous than she ever imagined. Now two versions of the accident are colliding—and only one can be true. Her loyalty is split. Her heart is at war with her conscience. A coming-of-age novel with engaging lessons about life’s choices and their consequences. How quickly poor actions can tear everything apart. What happens when you take the path of following your heart impulsively in the moment instead of your conscience. THE ACCIDENT (Woodhall Press: October 14, 2025) is not only a YA thriller, but a gripping psychological drama about love, guilt, and the razor-thin line between protecting others and betraying yourself.

Did you know that witches like to tell a silly joke or two? That's what makes them so witchy... who knew? Get ready for a silly Halloween treat with this tall novelty board book thatincludes hilarious jokes on every page -- perfect for the youngest fans eager to tickle their funny bones! Featuring a silly witch and her silly feet, toddlers and little ones will love holding, touching, and giggling along. With Sandra Magsamen's signature message of love, this spellbinding board book is perfect for the Halloween season!

This 28-day Advent devotional weaves together Scripture, reflection, prayer, and Neilson’s signature angel artwork to help readers experience the true meaning of Christmas. With weekly themes of hope, love, joy, and peace, Neilson invites readers to slow down and prepare their hearts for the birth of Jesus—especially in a season often filled with pressure, comparison, and exhaustion.Through honest storytelling, she reflects on the tension many women feel: the desire to create meaningful traditions while feeling overwhelmed, underprepared, or spiritually dry. Christmas Angels becomes a gentle guide—a reminder that Jesus is the real gift, and He meets us in our mess, our weariness, and our longing. Neilson's angel paintings—already beloved—add a layer of sacred beauty and wonder to the experience. Readers will also explore Old Testament prophecies, the nativity narratives, and heartfelt prayers that encourage a deeper connection with God during the holiday season.Anne Neilson is well known for her ethereal Angel Series, which are inspiring reflections of her faith and recognized for their stunning use of color. In response to demand for more access to her acclaimed Angel paintings, Neilson published two coffee table books and launched Anne Neilson Home, a growing collection of luxury home products. Neilson also owns Anne Neilson Fine Art, a gallery located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Representing more than 50 talented artists from across the world, the gallery is dedicated to being a lighthouse in Charlotte and beyond, illuminating the work of emerging and established artists. As a wife, mother of four, artist, author, and philanthropist, Anne paints and creates with passion and purpose, always giving back to others by contributing to local and national charitable organizations.

Thanks for being part of the conversation I am the Poet In The Forest. A children series I penned out in the 1990s. None of it would be possible if it wasn’t for this forest in South Charlotte, NC. I talk about it so much that I thought maybe it’s time you get to meet all that inspires me. Thanks for being part of the conversation

A delightfully peculiar story about embracing the magic of the night. Garden Glen was afraid of the dark. Each night when the sun went down, all the lights in town turned on. The houses shone like the noon sun. Every house except for Millie Fleur La Fae's, of course. Millie Fleur knows there are enchanting things that can only be glimpsed in the dark. But ever since she moved to Garden Glen, her nighttime friends are nowhere to be found. Determined to welcome the dark back to town, Millie Fleur bakes delicious moon pies and plants a sweet-smelling moon garden. But before the nighttime creatures will return, Millie Fleur must convince the townspeople to be brave and turn out the lights.

Thanks for being part of the conversation…Welcome to Forest Stories. A series of short-winded adventures within a collection of skyscraping trees stuck feet first in Georgia Clay right here in Carolina. It’s been a huge part of my daily writing journey for over 33 years.I’m the Poet In The Forest. A children’s series written and recorded in the 1990s.It’s grown into multiple podcasts that reach around the world.None of it would be possible without this forest in South Charlotte, NC.At the base of Heartbreak Hill sits a sign that reads Rainbow Forest. It’s time you meet what’s inspired several generations.Long before the paved paths decorated with colorful homes colonized around this beautiful lake, slow moving streams, flatland swamps and array of natural animals, there were families and business owners who are said to have raced into this area for the beauty of the land, wild roses, migratory birds and grapevines. Those before me either forgot to write about it or its buried somewhere inside a family tree. Thanks for being part of the conversation

Dubbed “The Queen of Jewish Romance”- JEAN MELTZER is an international bestselling author whose most recent book hit stores last week called: “The Eight Heartbreaks of Hannukah.” But - Meltzer is more than just her recent release and her numerous books. She’s also committed to spreading “Jewish Joy!” Meltzer’s efforts to share uplifting Jewish stories and voices has made her a leading figure in the Jewish literary world. She is the Founder & CEO of “Jewish Joy, LLC” – the umbrella organization to “Jewish Women Talk about Romance Books.” She started The Jewish Joy Book Club and The Jewish Joy Box. And NOW, Meltzer is launching JEWISH JOY CON - a groundbreaking 3-day event celebrating the best in pop-culture, storytelling, and creativity - scheduled next March in Fort Lauderdale. With her incredible force to cast a wide web, you would never know that Meltzer has a chronic fatigue illness that she won’t allow to stop her and get in her way!

Chanda A. Bell and Christa Pitts, co-CEOs and founders of The Lumistella Company and the visionaries behind the Santaverse™ and The Elf on the Shelf®, to discuss the global sensation and beloved holiday tradition The 20th anniversary celebration includes a novel titled The Rise of Nicholas the Noble, a flurry of new games, experiences, must-have holiday products, original content and more to honor the milestone year The Lumistella Company, creator of the internationally acclaimed Santaverse™ and The Elf on the Shelf®, is celebrating 20 years of the beloved holiday tradition that has made its mark on families and generations around the world. Alongside co-founders, CEOs and twin sisters Chanda A. Bell and Christa Pitts, we invite you to embrace the magic by learning more about The Elf on the Shelf and the immersive Santaverse, an enchanted story-driven world that brings new characters, places and entertainment to life year-round. From Bell's recent release of the middle grade novel The Rise of Nicholas the Noble to celebratory products, storylines, toys, games, experiences, partnerships and more, The Lumistella Company is sure to continue sparking joy to help families create lasting memories.Most recently, The Lumistella Company released a new friend of The Elf on the Shelf, Razzle the Celebration Snowman, who encourages fans of all ages to celebrate their own special occasions throughout the year. Created for the whole family, the company also announced its first video game inspired by the beloved Scout Elf titled The Elf on the Shelf®: Christmas Heroes, as well as a range of holiday must-haves, including a limited-edition 20th Anniversary Edition Box Set, Frost Pips™ elf babies, Elf Kits, original content, and so much more!!Written by 12x best-selling author Chanda A. Bell, The Rise of Nicholas the Noble unveils Santa’s untold origin story, sweeping readers into a breathtaking world of fantasy and wonder. This touching story highlights the importance of bravery, community and faith to protect the world from the dangers of evil.

Thanks for being part of the conversation I am the Poet In The Forest. A children series I penned out in the 1990s. None of it would be possible if it wasn’t for this forest in South Charlotte, NC. I talk about it so much that I thought maybe it’s time you get to meet all that inspires me. Thanks for being part of the conversation

It's 1943. Nazi Germany and its Axis power allies are ravaging Europe and the Pacific with a terrible war. At this juncture, President Franklin Roosevelt has one critical goal: a face-to-face meeting with his allies, Joseph Stalin and Winston Churchill. The first ever meeting of the "Big Three" is set to take place in Tehran, Iran, where the leaders of the three great superpowers will discuss and decide on some of the most crucial strategic details of the war. But when the Nazis learn about the meeting, they form their own secret, deadly plan: an assassination plot that would forever change history...if they're successful. This riveting true story, filled with daring rescues and high stakes intrigue, explains how this pivotal meeting in Tehran changed the course of World War II, and how the Nazi conspiracy to assassinate the Allied leaders nearly led to world-shattering disaster.

You’re invited to an unforgettable surprise celebration for someone truly special! Join Chuck E. Cheese and his friends for a magical Christmas adventure filled with music, laughter, and holiday cheer. Alongside his pals Helen Henny, Jasper Jowls, Bella Brinca, Munch, and Pasqually, Chuck E. creates a plan to throw a surprise party to lift Santa’s Christmas spirit! But surprising the man who “sees you when you’re sleeping and knows when you’re awake” won’t be easy. Can the gang pull it off in time to save Christmas? Get ready to sing along as this Christmas special debuts two cheerful new tunes that are bound to be Christmas classics, co-written by Barry, Moncrief, composer Ben Bromfield (“Ginny & Georgia”), and Barry’s father, legendary songwriter Jeff Barry, (songwriter of “I’m A Believer” for The Monkees, “Sugar Sugar”, for The Archies, and “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” popularized by Darlene Love, Mariah Carey, and Michael Bublé). Written and executive produced by Zac Moncrief and Jon Colton Barry (“Phineas & Ferb,” “Be Cool Scooby-Doo!”), A Chuck E. Cheese Christmas features a voice cast that includes Nathan Kress (“iCarly”) as Chuck E. Cheese, with Grey Griffin (“Avatar: The Last Airbender”), Nolan North (“Uncharted)”, Kari Wahlgren (“Rick & Morty”), Fred Tatasciore (“Kung Fu Panda 2”) and Michael Gough (“Doc McStuffins”).

-Missed Opportunity- I love sharing conversations. Hosting requires show prep. My podcasting platforms feature thousands of guests. What you don’t have access to are the missed opportunities. The show prep was completed. The conversation didn’t happen. I keep all my notes! Paths will cross again. Let me explain Missed Opportunity. It’s my questions and statements without their answers. I’m leaving open enough space at the end of each question hoping they’ll download the talk and insert their answers.Missed Opportunity is a lost piece of history. Like a message in a bottle tossed out to sea. I hope to locate a destination… This week we’re putting focus on my missed opportunity with singer songwriter now children’s book author Scott Hoying and his husband Mark. Missed Opportunity. A lost piece of history. You know the questions. Let’s locate the reactions. The door is always open. If you are or know Mark or Scott Hoying please reach out to me at [email protected] that’s [email protected] Be brilliant!

Thanks for being part of the conversation I am the Poet In The Forest. A children series I penned out in the 1990s. None of it would be possible if it wasn’t for this forest in South Charlotte, NC. I talk about it so much that I thought maybe it’s time you get to meet all that inspires me. Thanks for being part of the conversation

LOUISE WANNIER is an author, artist, and creative entrepreneur. As a visual artist and photographer, she attempts to capture and present the energy and spirit she observes and feels in our complex world. Her work has been exhibited at galleries and museums nationwide and appeared in the book Less Clutter More Life. She has built four companies and advised many others in industries from Education Technology to Fashion Design and is currently creating her own textile art prints and collections for fashion and the home under the label LOUIS JANE™. A graduate of the Fashion Institute for Design and Merchandising in Textile Design, she also holds an MBA from the UCLA Anderson School and a BS in Astronomy from the California Institute of Technology. She feels very fortunate to be “Safta” to nine grandchildren. To learn more, visit LouiseWannier.com.

In THE HAT DIARIES: Escape From the Adventure, Nadine Haruni culminates her action-packed trilogy with a story reflecting the power of friendship and the interconnectedness of family across generations. Book three opens with Ryan and Shadow in Aachen, Germany, on October 13, 1944. Despite repeated warnings from Merlo, Ryan made the terrible mistake of overstaying the 60-minute timeframe allotted to complete each Adventure. Right after Violet stepped through the Portal to return home, he dropped his diary, a precious written record of all his Adventures. He thought he’d have enough time to grab it before the countdown timer shrieked. Instead, as he picked up his diary, Ryan watched in horror as the massive red Portal door shut, leaving him stranded amidst the turmoil and danger of battle during World War II. THE HAT DIARIES: Escape From the Adventure is told from the perspective of three different narrators: Ryan, Merlo, and Violet. As the tension mounts, the story reveals a secret Merlo has been carrying for most of his adult life, one that is weighed down by guilt. As Sergeant Hank and Ryan set out on a journey fraught with danger, navigating through war-torn landscapes, Escape From the Adventure raises intriguing questions: Is it possible to prevent a tragic event from happening again? And if the course of history can be altered, at what cost? Through it all, readers will continue to root for Ryan Rigbee, a relatable and remarkable teen. While THE HAT DIARIES: Escape From the Adventure marks the end of the trilogy, Ryan and his magical Adventures will live on.

Thanks for being part of the conversation I am the Poet In The Forest. A children series I penned out in the 1990s. None of it would be possible if it wasn’t for this forest in South Charlotte, NC. I talk about it so much that I thought maybe it’s time you get to meet all that inspires me. Thanks for being part of the conversation

Evie can't believe she's made it to the 1936 Berlin Olympics. After fleeing the Oklahoma Dust Bowl, Evie's family is still poor and reeling from devastating losses. She could have never guessed that the sport she took up to escape her reality would lead to this. Now, she's competing in gymnastics on Team USA, with some of the greatest athletes in the world like track and field star Jesse Owens. But all is not as it seems in Berlin, a city now ruled by the Nazis and their tyrannical leader, Adolf Hitler. And Evie has secrets of her own. With two other Olympic athletes, who each have their own reasons for despising the Nazis, Evie has been recruited for the biggest heist of the century by a mysterious criminal mastermind, who intends on robbing the Nazis right under their noses. But Evie didn't count on being stuck with an inquisitive Youth Services Host, Heinz, who is determined to follow her every step while concealing his own deadly secret. And she didn't count on discovering the truth behind all of the glittering fanfare of the Olympics: the Nazis are harshly persecuting Jewish people and preparing for a devastating war. When the time comes, Evie is forced to face the reality around her, and the horrors that the Nazis can't quite hide. She must learn how to see the truth beneath the mirage and choose between what's wrong and right -- and what it might cost her. The timeless #1 New York Times bestseller REFUGEE in a stunning newgraphic novel adaptation!Josef is a Jewish boy living in 1930s Nazi Germany. With the threat of concentration camps looming, he and his family board a ship bound for the other side of the world... Isabel is a Cuban girl in 1994. With riots and unrest plaguing her country, she and her family set out on a raft, hoping to find safety in America... Mahmoud is a Syrian boy in 2015. With his homeland torn apart by violence and destruction, he and his family begin a long trek toward Europe... All three kids must endure harrowing journeys. All face unimaginable dangers. But there is always the hope of tomorrow. And although Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud are separated by continents and decades, shocking connections will tie their stories together in the end. Refugee is a modern classic that has spent over 5 years on the New York Times bestseller list and garnered several awards and much acclaim. Brought to life with rich, gorgeous illustrations by artist Syd Fini, this hotly anticipated graphic novel will attract a whole new generation of fans.

Those unrecognized moments when Fall is setting in and again this year you woke up not realizing the leaves have fallen from the trees. A major part of the story is now missing from your moments of all things right now.

Thanks for being part of the conversation…Welcome to Forest Stories. A series of short-winded adventures within a collection of skyscraping trees stuck feet first in Georgia Clay right here in Carolina. It’s been a huge part of my daily writing journey for over 33 years.I’m the Poet In The Forest. A children’s series written and recorded in the 1990s.It’s grown into multiple podcasts that reach around the world.None of it would be possible without this forest in South Charlotte, NC.At the base of Heartbreak Hill sits a sign that reads Rainbow Forest. It’s time you meet what’s inspired several generations.Long before the paved paths decorated with colorful homes colonized around this beautiful lake, slow moving streams, flatland swamps and array of natural animals, there were families and business owners who are said to have raced into this area for the beauty of the land, wild roses, migratory birds and grapevines. Those before me either forgot to write about it or its buried somewhere inside a family tree. Thanks for being part of the conversationThis week, the writers canvas unveils the missing mysterious working gloves.

A community touchstone and a reminder that the best way to a better future is to create it together… united. The conclusion to the New York Times bestselling All Because You Matter trilogy,TOGETHER,UNITED by Tami Charles and illustrated by Bryan Collier, is a profound and inspirational message of unity. A lyrical and astounding proclamation of unity and love, this stunning picture book serves as a reminder and a clear declaration that together, we are all part of something much greater. Courageous and bold, this final follow-up to the New York Times bestselling All Because You Matter and acclaimed We Are Here is a message of optimism: that alone we are strong, but together we are unstoppable! Tami Charles’ powerful and rhythmic text reminds young readers of their brilliance as individuals and the immense power they hold when their voices come together as one. Breathtaking illustrations by renowned artist Bryan Collier, evoke the beauty and wonder of how we are all connected together in the world and our ability to change it for the better.

Those unrecognized moments when Fall is setting in and again this year you woke up not realizing the leaves have fallen from the trees. A major part of the story is now missing from your moments of all things right now.

Claribel Ortega returns to her much beloved middle grade series Witchlings with the fourth book, SCEPTER OF MEMORIES. In this new book, evil dwells in Ravenskill and it’s up to the Spares to prevent it from taking over. Seven, Thorn, and Valley are determined to stop Ambert Lophiifor’s plan of taking over the Twelve Towns. With Seven’s Uncle powers and their new coven behind them, surely they’ll be able to defeat him at last. But strange things are happening around Ravenskill—the Witchlings’ allies are starting to forget them! When the Witchlings are charged with the crime of practicing unnatural and dangerous magic, no one is there to come to their defense. Without any support, the Witchlings are forced to flee beyond the borders of the Twelve Towns and into the swirling grey mists of the Enchanted Grim, hoping to find the one witch who might have the knowledge and power to help them: Delphinium Larkspur. The Grim is an uncharted wilderness filled with monstruos, where no normal witch would ever be able to survive. But there’s nothing normal about the Witchlings, their courage, or their friendship. Together with their Nightbeasts, they are determined to find a way to save their home. Even if it means embracing the monstruos within themselves.