Children’s Books

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July 17, 2026

Wings of Fire Books in Order (Complete Parent Guide)

If you're trying to figure out the correct Wings of Fire books in order, you're not alone. When my family first discovered the series, we quickly realized it wasn't just another children's fantasy collection. Between the sixteen main novels, graphic novels, Legends books, Winglets, and companion titles, it can be surprisingly difficult for parents to know where to start. Whether you're buying Wings of Fire for the first time or trying to figure out what comes after Book 5, this guide brings everything together in one place. You'll find the complete reading order, age recommendations, graphic novel advice, buying tips, and our family's experience reading the series together. If you're short on time, don't worry. The Quick Facts and Reading Order tables below will help you get started in just a few minutes, while the rest of the guide dives deeper into the questions parents ask most often.

June 20, 2026

Creator Lessons: What 47 Interviews Taught Me About Creativity, Writing, Publishing, and Building Meaningful Work

Over the years, I've interviewed authors, illustrators, publishers, literary agents, editors, and creators from a wide range of backgrounds. While their careers look different on the surface, many of the same lessons appeared again and again. Some have sold millions of books. Others built successful illustration careers. Some left stable jobs to pursue creative work. Others persevered through years of rejection before finding success. What follows is a collection of the most important lessons that emerged across these conversations. Each lesson is supported by interviews and articles that explore the idea in greater depth.

May 18, 2021

What Literary Agents Look For in Children’s Books: Insights from Adria Goetz

Literary agents occupy a unique position in the publishing industry. They evaluate thousands of submissions, identify promising talent, negotiate publishing deals, and help shape books that ultimately reach readers around the world. In this interview, literary agent Adria Goetz shares insights into querying, children's publishing, author platforms, book pitches, illustrator portfolios, and the qualities that help writers stand out in a highly competitive market. Whether you're pursuing traditional publishing or simply hoping to better understand the industry, her perspective offers a valuable behind-the-scenes look at how literary agents evaluate books and creative careers.

March 2, 2021

Brian P. Cleary on Writing, Publishing, Copywriting, and Selling 3 Million Books

What can writers learn from an author who has sold more than 3 million books, published over 50 titles, and spent four decades writing professionally? In this interview, bestselling children’s author, poet, speaker, and American Greetings Senior Editor Brian P. Cleary shares insights on writing concisely, copywriting, creativity, publishing, school visits, poetry, and the realities of making a living with words.

February 16, 2021

What Tara Lazar Taught Me About Writing Children’s Books, Creativity, and StoryStorm

Many aspiring authors dream of publishing a children's book. Far fewer build a sustainable writing life that lasts for years or even decades. In this interview, bestselling children's author and StoryStorm founder Tara Lazar shares lessons on creativity, idea generation, publishing, perseverance, and why writing is more than a hobby—it's a lifestyle. Whether you're an aspiring author, experienced writer, or creative professional, Tara's insights offer practical encouragement for building a long-term creative practice.

February 2, 2021

How Branding and Storytelling Help Writers Build Audience Trust

Great communication shapes everything—from marketing campaigns and brand messaging to books, websites, and social media posts. Few people have seen both sides of that equation as closely as author, illustrator, and communications professional Shay Fan. Having worked in branding, public relations, content strategy, and publishing, Shay has spent years studying how people connect with ideas, stories, and each other. In this interview, she shares lessons on communication, audience trust, branding, storytelling, publishing, and what creators can learn from both the corporate and creative worlds.

December 13, 2020

Dragon Masters Books in Order (Complete Series Guide)

After our son finished the Magic Tree House Books series, we needed another book collection that could hold his attention. Dragon Masters by Tracey West quickly became that series. Filled with dragons, magic, teamwork, adventure, and short chapters designed for developing readers, Dragon Masters has become one of the most popular early chapter book series available today. This guide includes the complete Dragon Masters books in order, character guide, reading level, age recommendations, latest releases, and answers to the questions parents ask most often.

September 19, 2020

The Bear and the Piano: Reading Activities, Themes, and Theme Song Resource

The Bear and the Piano by David Litchfield has become one of the most beloved modern picture books for children. The story combines music, friendship, ambition, and belonging in a way that resonates with both young readers and adults. While exploring resources related to the book, I had the opportunity to learn more about a unique project created by children's songwriter Annie Lynn—a theme song inspired by The Bear and the Piano. Along the way, I also discovered how music can strengthen reading engagement, comprehension, and memory for young children. If you're a parent, teacher, librarian, homeschool educator, or simply a fan of The Bear and the Piano, this guide explores the book, the music, and why combining stories with songs can create a richer reading experience.