A riotous collection of irreverent poems for modern families...these poems bring a fresh new twist to the classic dilemmas of childhood as well as a perceptive eye to the foibles of modern family life. Full of clever wordplay and bright visual gags!

Children's Comic Various Characters

Voicing Characters from The Hobtails by Shelly Kaye.

Mortimerry Hobtail

Beach Town Series:

Farnaz Calafi joins Rayanne for a chat about her book "Hazel and Her Sun," her process, and what's next for her. 

Farnaz Calafi loves writing in all genres. Whether fact-based & well-researched, or fictional & out of this world bizarre! She previously worked for the Los Angeles Times & her OpEd pieces have been published in USA Today, San Diego Union-Tribune, & The New York Times.

*Episode 6 of a 10-part series sponsored by Beach Town Books, celebrating their Author Pop Up Event on April 20-21. 
Beach Town Books 
99 Avenida Serra, 
San Clemente, CA

S1 E12 Guest: Author Farnaz Calafi,  "Hazel And Her Sun"

1st Time Children's Book Author, Author Zack, chats with Rayanne Thorn Krueger about his new book, "Truffle Cat." 
 
Zack is a co-founder and the CEO of Nomadix, a company that creates sustainable, versatile, and high-performance products for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Besides his work at Nomadix, Zack is also a children's book author. His first board book, "Truffle Cat," is an inspiring story about a curious cat who pursues his dream of becoming a truffle hunter. Truffle Cat encourages children to explore new places and pursue their passions no matter what obstacles are in the way. Zack grew up in Virginia, earning a degree from Virginia Commonwealth University before setting off on a global adventure, living and working in more than 40 countries. In his free time, Zack is an avid soccer fan, and loves to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He enjoys hiking, camping, and exploring new places with his family. 
 
*Part 10 of a 10-part series sponsored by Beach Town Books, celebrating their Author Pop Up Event on April 20-21. 
Beach Town Books 
99 Avenida Serra, 
San Clemente, CA

S1 E17 Guest: Author Zack Helminiak, "Truffle Cat"

A children's book that tells of a little tree growing where trees are not supposed to grow.  He is laughed at and discriminated against, but in the end he is able to turn his "weakness" into a strength and survive and grow.  The full audiobook is available on over 50 audiobook sites.

The Little Tree That Would Chapter 1 (Sample Chapter)

Artist Barbara McGould and author Susan Gluck have created a delightful children's book about the main character (the number Zero) discovering her talent and worth. Children and adults alike will learn something about themselves...and others!

Episode 154: From Zero to Hero

An brief excerpt from the book, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

A Tree Grows In Brooklyn

Cosy reading of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
(source: Project Gutenberg)

Alice In Wonderland (Chapter 6)

Looking for that perfect gift to get your kids motivated to play outdoors? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Lori “Ice” Fetrick on her children’s book The Playground Warriors: Ace & The Monkeybars.

Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate!

Lori “Ice” Fetrick, a renowned figure in the fitness and entertainment industry, has established herself as a multifaceted professional with an impressive range of accomplishments. Widely recognized for her role as 'Ice' on the original American Gladiators, Lori continues to make an impact through her diverse ventures.  https://www.musclesandmayhemlive.com

For more show information visit:
www.MariannePestana.com


The Playground Warriors with Lori "ICE" Fetrick

A magnificently illustrated picture book biography of Barack Obama​: a tireless organizer, a brilliant orator, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, and the first Black president of the United States of America.

Before he became the president, Barack Obama was a little boy called Barry. Amid a happy childhood in Hawaii and Indonesia, he also yearned for a better understanding of Black history and culture, and a better sense of his own identity as a Black American. Spurred by conversations around race, injustice, and inequality, he became a community organizer, practiced civil rights law, and was elected to the US Senate. “Yes we can!” became a rallying cry for his message of hope and change throughout the 2008 presidential election—which resulted in Barack Obama becoming the first Black president of the United States.

This addition to the highly acclaimed Big Words series celebrates one of the most inspiring American leaders of our time. With evocative illustrations by award-winning artist Tonya Engel, Doreen Rappaport’s richly detailed narrative employs rousing quotes from Obama himself and encourages young readers to investigate who they are and who they might one day become.

Don’t miss these other titles in the Big Words series!

Beacon of Hope By Doreen Rappaport and Tonya Engel, Read By Leon Nixon (Audiobook Excerpt)

Are you looking for a children’s book that inspires compassion and teamwork? Tune in tune in for an inspiring discussion with Chelsea Chong Kim on her new book Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl.

Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate! 

Chelsea Chong Kim is an award-winning children’s book author, podcast host, and former middle school math teacher whose debut, Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl, was featured on iHeart Radio, ValiantCEO Magazine, and Good Day Fox Stateline. In addition to writing, she hosts Chelsea’s Story Nook Podcast, where she interviews authors worldwide and shares behind-the-scenes insights into the creative process. She is currently working on the second Carol the Carrot book, developing magical new characters and merchandise that champion individuality, teamwork, and confident leadership. https://chelseastorynook.com/

For more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

Carol the Carrot Bowls for the Salad Bowl

A sample read of a children's book with 3 characters

Children's Book Sample

On sale March 4th, 2025

It's your time to shine! An uplifting text exploring the ups and downs of anticipation that will help buoy readers out of anxiety and into embracing a growth mindset.

It’s almost the big day. You’re counting the hours . . .and minutes . . .and seconds . . . But what if it all doesn’t go the way you’d planned?
 
Time goes slowly when you’re dreaming, hoping, and most of all waiting for your next big challenge. But one thing is certain: You’re growing stronger and wiser each day. So . . . take a deep breath and gather your courage. The world is ready and waiting for you!

Here is a spirited story that will shake out the jitters and boost the confidence needed to face whatever it is you’re waiting for.

Perfect for:


Graduation gifts (for any age!)

New experiences (camp, performances, athletic events, starting school!)

Learning the importance of practice

Fans of books like The Magical Yet and The Wonderful Things You Will Be

What Are You Waiting For? By Marcy Campbell, Read By Samantha Turret (Audiobook Excerpt)

How can a K9 handler’s journey of resilience, service, and redemption inspire us to find purpose even in life’s toughest moments? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with David Mendoza III on his new books Unleashed Redemption: A K9 Handler's Story of Hope & Healing and The Biblical Adventures of Floppy and Hoppy.

#MomentsWithMarianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET 1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate! 

David Mendoza III is the Founder and CEO of Books For His Glory Publishing, and he is a dedicated servant leader with a deep commitment to faith, service, and storytelling. A retired federal law enforcement officer with over 30 years of service, he is also a Desert Storm Marine Corps Veteran. Holding a seminary degree in biblical studies, David has served as a law enforcement chaplain, peer support member, and Veterans Support Program volunteer.  Now a Christian minister and former pastor, David shares his faith through ministry and writing. He is the author of several children’s books, including The Biblical Adventures of Floppy and Hoppy and Gideon the Brave Bulldog, as well as Unleashed Redemption – A K9 Handler’s Story of Hope & Healing for adults. His latest project is K9 Rudie: The Service Dog – The Life of a Work Dog. A devoted husband and father, David and his wife Janie are actively involved in their church, serving in adult and children’s ministry.  www.booksforhisglory.com 

For more show information visit:
www.MariannePestana.com

Unleashed Redemption with David Mendoza III

Dive into the whimsical world of "Hey A.J., It's Bedtime!" with this immersive audio adventure. Join A.J. as she navigates her day at elementary school, struggling to stay awake after a wild party in her room the night before. Experience the fun and chaos as beloved characters from the book come to life with new voice overs, and meet exciting new friends at school.
This audio adventure expands the universe of "Hey A.J." by introducing an elementary school setting and a lively lunch scene. Listen to the rapping dinosaurs and enjoy the original song that brings the party to life. With talented voice actors and engaging sound effects, this adventure offers a dynamic and interactive storytelling experience that activates your imagination.

Hey A.J. It's Bedtime! Audio Adventure

Can spending time among ancient trees truly awaken creativity, intuition, and even deep healing? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Ellen Dee Davidson on her new books The Miracle Forest: A True Story, Wind, and Sacred Forest Bathing: The Healing Power of Ancient Trees and Wild Places.

Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET 1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.com

After graduating from UC Santa Cruz, Ellen Dee Davidson spent years teaching elementary school, creative writing, and piano while raising her two daughters, Jessica and Michelle. She is the author of six published books and several magazine articles, including one on preserving ancient trees. Her works include The Miracle Forest: A True Story (a 2025 Nautilus Silver Award winner), Wind (a 2023 Nautilus Gold Award winner), and Sacred Forest Bathing: The Healing Power of Ancient Trees and Wild Places. Ellen lives among the redwoods in Humboldt County, where nature continues to inspire her writing and way of life. https://www.ellendeedavidson.com

For more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

The Miracle Forest with Ellen Dee Davidson

Could one children’s book spark lifelong healthy habits in your child? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Alana C. Marks on her Nautilus award-winning children’s book Bugs in My Tummy.
 
Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET 1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate!  https://www.kmet1490am.com

Alana C. Marks discovered a love of writing as an adolescent when she began writing a pen pal. One pen pal soon grew to a multitude as her letters spread to friends near and far. When her children were born, her nightly story telling talents blossomed and from that ritual her first novel, Unbroken Bones, was born.  Writing is Alana's hobby which she does in her spare time between managing her business and traveling abroad. She's a sucker for a quiet walk or bike ride down a lonely forest trail, which always seems to soothe her soul and ignite her imagination.  https://www.alanacmarks.com

Bugs in My Tummy on Amazon: https://a.co/d/5aRW2aH 

For more show information visit:
www.MariannePestana.com


Bugs in My Tummy with Alana C. Marks

I'm a professional audiobook narrator and voice actor who adores all aspects of my career, particularly Middle Grade fiction and animation work where I can perform a lot of characters and accents.

No human is perfect and that is what makes each person so interesting. 
The REAL Words Podcast was created to highlight, spotlight, celebrate, and joy in original content created by real people who have real experiences with being a REAL human.

Pacific Northwest raised artist living in London UK with an easy, feminine ASMR and Narration voice to fit any project.

Grammy-winning audiobook publisher. Authors include James Patterson, David Baldacci, and Michael Connelly. Earbuds encouraged. Follow us on Twitter at @HachetteAudio.

In a single moment your life can change!  “Moments with Marianne” is a transformative hour that covers an endless array of topics with the ‘best of the best.’ Her guest are leaders in their fields, ranging from inspirational authors, top industry leaders, business and spiritual entrepreneurs.  Each guest is gifted, and a true visionary!  A recognized leader in her own work, and while teaching others to develop, refocus, and grow; Marianne will bring the best guest, and sometimes a special surprise.  Don’t miss this – you never know just which ‘moment’ will change your life forever.

Award-winning author and podcast host Laurel McHargue lives and laughs and writes in the breathtaking elevation of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. She writes about life--real and imagined--and wants to share your stories, too! Follow her on her website at www.leadvillelaurel.com, subscribe to her YouTube channel, and contact her at laurel.mchargue@gmail.com. Find all of her books on Amazon, or order them from your local independent bookstore.

New tracks tagged #Children&#x27;s Book

New tracks tagged #Children's Book