May Author Update
Oakwoods Series - RELEASED!
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5.0 out of 5 stars Lovely Book
Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2025
This book was absolutely precious! Beautiful story and beautiful illustrations. The story is very wholesome in its telling and its moral. I highly recommend for young children or anyone that has a soft spot for children's books. It is my first by this author and I plan to read her others.
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5.0 out of 5 stars Friendship, fun, and facts!
Reviewed in the United States on April 25, 2025
This warm story invites readers into a woodland world that feels very classic and fun. Kids will like meeting the animals in the Oakwoods series. As kids read about the animals' adventures, friendships, and foibles, they'll also discover timeless lessons that feel authentic to the characters and the Oakwoods world--and also applicable to our daily lives. In this story, Sally Skunkskin discovers the benefits of friendship and the power of a simple hello.
These books would be great for a classroom or home library. I love the thoughtful discussion questions in the back, and the animal facts! I definitely learned some things I didn't know about skunks! -
5.0 out of 5 stars Engaging and Fun Book!
Reviewed in the United States on May 1, 2025
Author Kathy J. Perry and illustrator Claudia Gadotti have done it again with “Benjamin Bat, Humility.”
Benjamin Bat is known for his skill in hunting moths and insects. His ability to fly without relying on sight showcases his remarkable talent. When he tries to impress a companion, his attitude shifts from predator to prey.
I highly recommend this story, which delves into themes filled with humility and the significance of personal growth, as Benjamin must learn from his self-absorption. -
5.0 out of 5 stars A story about friendship and cooperation.
Reviewed in the United States on May 1, 2025
“Oakwoods Nuts, Teamwork” by author Kathy J Perry and illustrator Claudia Gadotti
A story about friendship and cooperation.
If you watch squirrels, you know how busy they can be, dashing and darting around, hiding their nuts for future use. What begins as an everyday task, quickly evolves into an endless tug-of-war over each other’s treasures.
Join Nuts and other lovable characters from the Oakwoods series and see how harmony is restored in this fun and lively narrative.
The illustrations are engaging, featuring fun facts, a glossary of terms, and educational content. This book will bring warmth and character to both home and classroom bookshelves. -
5.0 out of 5 stars Touching and Uplifting Tale
Reviewed in the United States on May 1, 2025
“Oakwoods Jeremy Jay Resilience,” by author Kathy J. Perry and illustrated by Claudia Gadotti is a book that readers won’t want to miss.
This touching and uplifting tale explores themes of self-acceptance, friendship, and resilience. Jeremy Jay, a blue jay grappling with his deformed foot, embodies the struggles of feeling different and isolated. The story wonderfully explores his journey of self-doubt and transformation.
With the help of his old friend and many others, Jeremy Jay begins to embrace his unique qualities.
I highly recommend this story to those looking for an inspiring and a well-written tale. The illustrations, book discussions, fun facts, educational insights, and glossary, add to this beautiful story.
Goodreads Giveaway. During April, Pip O’Possum garnered 870 entries and 100 people received a free eBook. Congratulations if you were one. (Please review.) During May, Sally Skunkskin is up for another 100 free eBooks. Enter Now!
Scheduled In-Person Events
June 13-14: Smithville Lake Festival
November 6-8: MAACS Conference
Would love to add a visit to your school or library. Contact me.
Overcoming the Bitterness of War
You might remember I’ve been helping Isatu (Maria) Boyce get her story of faith and forgiveness through unbelievable trials published.
Her book is finally coming from the printer this week! She’s so excited. I’m going to video her opening the box. If you haven’t pre-ordered one, please visit her website to do so.
When Not Working or Doing Author Things…
I’ve been binge-watching Chip & Joanna Gaines and their show Fixer Upper. I miss working on houses sometimes, but know my limitations. So, I’ve been doing little things for OUR house here and there. It feels good to clean and fix things I’ve been meaning to do for months or years.
My husband and I enjoy watching & feeding the birds (and wildlife) on our deck, including nightly visits from very large raccoons. Not sure what to do about those guys. We may have to move the food back to the front yard. I tried closing the gate to the deck, but really, they just use the fence as a ladder, anyway.
Of course, no spring is complete without a trip to Larry’s Nursery in Riverside (among others). Can you believe my husband’s idea for that little area by the wall was to fill it in with concrete? Well, that might have been cheaper… There used to be a tree there, which is why we concreted around it. The black on the wall comes from the squirrels eating walnuts on top of it. We have LOTS of squirrels—and walnut trees next door to us.
What’s Next?
Well, besides the marketing/events above, I’m taking a class which will help me with my next writing project: Young Emeline. (A prequel to the Emeline series.)
It will be a middle-grade novel featuring the younger Emeline with her friends and family on the homestead in Kearney, Missouri. (1880s)