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New STEM Graphic Novel Blends Adventure With Real Hands-On Science
The gap between science fiction, graphic novels and hands-on, experiential science is finally being bridged with the introduction of The Spark Experiment, a groundbreaking full-color interactive graphic novel that promises more than just adventure. The Spark Experiment releases on April 28, 2026.
Created by High Touch High Tech – SCIENCE MADE FUN!, a global leader in hands-on science enrichment programming for children, this high-energy sci-fi adventure includes safe, fully guided innovative STEM experiments that readers can perform at home—turning scientific concepts from the story into exciting, immersive experiences. This unique format fills a long-standing gap in the children’s graphic novel market, offering educators, librarians, and young readers an engaging, science-driven adventure that inspires curiosity and makes learning interactive.
Fifth grader David Patel and his spirited second-grade neighbor Marta Martinez, uncover a science experiment gone wrong and are suddenly transported to the mysterious Micro Universe—a strange dimension where the laws of physics no longer apply. With the help of a curious creature named Spark, they manage to return home… not realizing they’ve accidentally brought back a dangerous threat: Negatrons, energy-draining beings intent on invading their town. As they spread, David, Marta, and Spark must use creativity, problem-solving, and 18 real do-it-yourself science experiments—all of which readers can perform themselves—to save their community and learn to “spark” their own imaginations along the way.
Known for bringing dynamic, experiment-based science programs to students worldwide, High Touch High Tech’s mission aligns perfectly with the book’s commitment to making science fun, accessible, and experiential. Written by acclaimed authors Matthew K. Manning and Matthew Loux, The Spark Experiment marks an exciting step forward for STEM-based graphic storytelling, opening the door for a new generation of readers who crave exploration, creativity, and discovery.
ABOUT HIGH TOUCH HIGH TECH
High Touch High Tech – SCIENCE MADE FUN! is a global leader in hands-on science enrichment programming for children. With 35 franchise locations in 12 countries, High Touch High Tech brings engaging, curriculum-aligned science experiences directly to schools, camps, preschools, and special events. For over 30 years, the company has empowered children to explore science through interactive experiments that spark curiosity, foster critical thinking, and inspire a lifelong love of learning.
Through long-standing partnerships with family-focused brands like Royal Caribbean, JW Marriott, and Beaches Resorts, High Touch High Tech continues to make science meaningful, accessible, and FUN for millions of young learners worldwide.
High Touch Entertainment was created by founder Daniel Shaw as a way of offering additional science content to kids beyond the High Touch High Tech franchise territories. To differentiate from other science books on the market, Shaw instead landed on the development of a science comic book, with real science experiments wrapped in a compelling story.
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A Story That Gently Teaches Love, Memory, and Time — Tali and the Timeless Time
As a mom, I’m constantly thinking about how to help my child understand the world — its beauty, its change, and sometimes, its challenges. That’s why I was so moved when I discovered Tali and the Timeless Time, a new children’s book by award-winning author Mira Z. Amiras, published by The Collective Book Studio.
Just in time for the holidays, this book offers something we rarely find in children’s literature — a gentle, honest way to talk about aging, memory, and love within families.
The story follows Tali, a bright, curious girl who adores spending time with her grandmother, “Nona.” Their bond feels familiar — the kitchen filled with warmth, laughter, and the comforting smell of traditional Sephardic Jewish dishes like chakchouka and stuffed grape leaves. But as Tali notices Nona starting to forget small things — mixing up names, losing her place in a recipe — she begins to see her grandmother entering what the story beautifully calls “Timeless Time.”
In this special space, memories from the past and present swirl together, and Tali learns to see her grandmother’s world with patience, compassion, and love. It’s a poetic way to help children process something many families eventually face — the fading of memory in those they love most.
What I especially love about Tali and the Timeless Time is how it opens the door for gentle conversations about dementia and Alzheimer’s — without fear, and without sadness as the main theme. It’s hopeful. It helps children (and parents, honestly) see memory loss through the lens of empathy and continuity — how love still connects generations, even when details blur.
The illustrations by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne are warm and expressive, capturing every small moment between Tali and Nona — from hands kneading dough together to the quiet pause when time stands still. You can almost smell the food, feel the tenderness, and see the love that lives in every page.
The book also celebrates cultural diversity and tradition in a way that feels both specific and universal — a reflection of Jewish heritage that welcomes all families into its circle of storytelling, food, and heart.
For ages 4–8, Tali and the Timeless Time makes a wonderful holiday gift — not just as a bedtime read, but as a bridge between generations. It’s the kind of book that invites grandparents, parents, and children to sit together, share stories, and maybe even bake something special while talking about memories that matter.
💛 A few reasons I recommend it:
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It handles memory loss with warmth and clarity, not fear.
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The story helps children understand aging in a relatable, loving way.
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The art and recipes add layers of cultural richness and comfort.
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It’s beautifully made — a keepsake, not just a book.
If you’re looking for something meaningful this season — a story that touches both hearts and minds — Tali and the Timeless Time deserves a place on your shelf. It’s one of those rare books that grows with your family, reminding us that while time may change things, love remains timeless.
📚 Tali and the Timeless Time
By Mira Z. Amiras | Illustrated by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne
Published by The Collective Book Studio | August 12, 2025
Hardcover | $19.95 | ISBN: 9781685551858 -
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Minno Launches Guillermo & Will, First-of-Its-Kind Dual-Language Puppet Series Bringing God’s Love to Kids in English and Spanish
NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 16, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Minno, the global leader in Christian kids’ media, is proud to announce its newest original series, Guillermo & Will which debuts on the streaming platform October 10. Guillermo & Will is a groundbreaking, dual-language puppet show designed to help children engage with God’s world in both English and Spanish.
Created by Emmy-nominated puppeteer Donna Kimball, co-written by Dan Garza, and co-produced with the award-winning Family Theater Productions, Guillermo & Will introduces two lovable puppet friends whose adventures reflect the joy and beauty of cross-cultural friendship. The series combines creative storytelling, a biblical world view, and developmental expertise to help kids see themselves reflected on screen—while learning about God in a personal and relatable way.
“At Minno, we’re honored to create a platform for world-class creators like Donna and Dan—talented artists who bring heart, humor, and deep meaning to children’s storytelling. Guillermo & Will is a joyful expression of God’s love and friendship across cultures, and it reflects our broader vision to raise the bar in Christian children’s media. We’re especially grateful to partner with Family Theater Productions, whose legacy of redemptive storytelling aligns beautifully with our mission to help kids and families experience Jesus every day,” said Erick Goss, CEO and Co-Founder of Minno.
With Spanish-language content consistently ranking among the top 10 performers across Minno’s platforms, Guillermo & Will meets a vital need. Millions of families around the world are Spanish-speaking or bilingual, and this series gives children the gift of seeing their language and culture represented in Christian media.
“For more than 75 years, Family Theater Productions has created media to help families grow in faith. Guillermo & Will carries that legacy forward—offering joyful, faith-filled storytelling for children, with special care for families, including Catholic and Spanish-speaking audiences, who seek content that reflects their culture and values,” says Father David L. Guffey, C.S.C., National Director of Family Theater Productions.
By designing the show with input from early childhood development specialists and language education experts, Minno ensures Guillermo & Will resonates with early learners—whether they are native English speakers, Spanish speakers, or both.
Working with top-tier talent such as Kimball—whose career spans Emmy-nominated performances—and Garza, Guillermo & Will reflects Minno’s vision to raise the bar in Christian kids’ content. The series delivers creativity and production quality on par with mainstream children’s programming while staying faithful to its biblical foundation.
About Minno
Minno is the #1 source of Christian content for kids and families. Named after the Greek word menō (to abide) from John 15:4–5, Minno exists to help families abide in Christ—in the everyday moments of life. With a fast-growing streaming platform, the #1 YouTube channel for Christian kids, and best-selling books like The Laugh and Grow Bible for Kids, Minno helps kids and their families experience Jesus every day, on and off screens. Minno’s original shows are made in partnership with top Christian creators, child development experts, theologians and educational media specialists to set new standards of excellence. Available on all major platforms, and supporting parents with resources, devotionals, and blogs, Minno is where God’s love comes to life for kids around the world. Learn more at www.gominno.comAbout Family Theater Productions (FTP)
Located on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, Family Theater Productions’ Emmy, Gabriel, and Christopher Award-winning media has engaged families since 1947 with stories that unlock the heart. The company’s work includes feature films, TV series, podcasts, and digital series. www.familytheater.org.
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A Magical Journey Through Nature: Animal Adventures: Day in the Forest
Animal Adventures: Day in the Forest by Alexandra Claire is a delightful board book that brings the wonders of the woodland to life for young readers. Designed for ages 0-3, this beautifully crafted book combines stunning photography with gentle, rhythmic rhymes to create a captivating experience perfect for early learners and nature lovers alike.
A Visual and Rhythmic Delight
From sunrise to sunset, little ones will follow along as foxes, squirrels, rabbits, and other woodland creatures explore their forest home. The vibrant, full-color images and lyrical text work together to engage a child’s curiosity and foster a love for nature. The book’s calming tone and rhythmic storytelling make it an excellent choice for bedtime reading, helping little ones wind down while immersing them in the magic of the forest.
A Perfect Addition to Any Child’s Library
With its sturdy board book format, Day in the Forest is built to withstand little hands eager to explore its pages. Whether given as a baby shower gift, a birthday present, or simply as a bedtime favorite, this book is sure to become a treasured part of any child’s reading routine.
A Series That Grows with Young Readers
Part of the Animal Adventures series, this book is a wonderful introduction to the natural world. Young readers who enjoy it can continue their journey with Animal Adventures: Day at the Farm, making it a fantastic series for fostering early learning and a connection to the environment.
If you’re looking for a beautifully illustrated, engaging book that nurtures a love for nature and storytelling, Animal Adventures: Day in the Forest is a must-have addition to your child’s bookshelf.
The Collective Book Studio is a woman-owned, full-service publishing studio that works with authors, brands, and companies to create, develop, and publish high-quality books. With a focus on innovative content and striking design, The Collective Book Studio offers a unique approach to the publishing process, providing clients with expertise and collaborative support from concept to creation. -
A Vibrant Celebration of Self-Expression: No One Owns the Colors
Winner of the Bookstagang Best of 2023 Picture Book Award for Best Read Aloud and a 2024 CIPA EVVY Awards Bronze Winner, No One Owns the Colors by Gianna Davy is a powerful picture book that encourages children to embrace their individuality and express themselves freely.
A Bold Message of Inclusivity and Confidence
With rhythmic, melodic text, this book delivers an empowering message: colors belong to everyone. No hue—whether pink, blue, or chartreuse—is restricted to a single gender, group, or culture. Instead, colors are a reflection of the natural world, meant to be enjoyed and celebrated by all. Inspired by real schoolyard experiences, Davy’s words give young readers the confidence to push back against outdated stereotypes and proudly embrace their personal choices—whether it’s the color of their clothing, art, or identity.
Whimsical Illustrations That Bring Colors to Life
Brenda Rodriguez’s bright, expressive artwork beautifully complements the book’s message. With a playful and dynamic style, her illustrations reflect the joy and diversity of color in both nature and human expression. The visual storytelling enhances the book’s impact, making it both engaging and thought-provoking for young readers.
A Must-Have for Young Readers and Classrooms
Perfect for parents, teachers, and caregivers, No One Owns the Colors is an excellent addition to any bookshelf. Its message of acceptance and individuality aligns with contemporary favorites like Pink is for Boys and The World Needs More Purple People. Whether read aloud at home or shared in a classroom setting, this book is a valuable tool for sparking discussions about self-expression, inclusion, and confidence.
With its lyrical storytelling and vibrant illustrations, No One Owns the Colors is a joyful and essential celebration of creativity, identity, and the boundless possibilities of color.
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D is for Dogs: A Charming Alphabet Adventure for Little Dog Lovers
D is for Dogs is an engaging alphabet board book from the BabyLit series, illustrated by Greg Paprocki in his signature retro mid-century style. This delightful book introduces young readers to a range of dog breeds—from big and bold to small and snuggly—that they might encounter in their neighborhood or see on TV. Each page bursts with playful, vibrant illustrations, depicting athletic dogs running in the park, sleepy dogs dozing off, and even hungry pups enjoying a snack. The charm of Paprocki’s illustrations, which appeals to both kids and adults, makes this book a favorite for families.
Greg Paprocki is an award-winning illustrator, designer, and children’s book author, well-known for his detailed and expressive work. Since launching his ABC board book series with Gibbs Smith in 2016, he has captivated young audiences, selling over 750,000 copies worldwide. Beyond books, Paprocki collaborates with brands like Ravensburger and the Palm Springs store Just Fabulous, creating everything from puzzles to merchandise.
With D is for Dogs, Greg Paprocki brings a heartwarming and visually stunning experience to children learning the alphabet, making it a perfect gift for little dog lovers and their families.
