Digger The Brave Dog

Here is a new book from a new author. It is about Digger the dog. Digger was a rescued pup from the pound who won the hearts of his new family despite his troubled past. It is a cute little children's story about how one can overcome one's fears and do something great for those you love.

Tim Frymyer was a stay at home dad, before returning to work. But during this time, he developed a knack for telling wonderful bedtime stories to his children. This has developed from a parental practice, to a hobby, to a profession. He enjoys telling stories and has a unique style all his own; it is very easy for children to follow as he does not draw out the plot too long for today's short attention-span kids.

Get your ebook today at Amazon. It's only $0.99 and worth every penny. On a side note, this is a true story and the cover picture is of the actual Digger the dog himself.

Why Family Friendly Books

Just wanted to drop a quick note about why we chose to be a 'family friendly' publishing company. There are far too many books out there which feed our children garbage. Books written for young adolescents that touch on suicide, intimacy, and violence are not proper for that age group (in our eyes anyway). Sadly, many parents do not check over books before they buy them, especially now that e-books are so widely available and popular.

Let me give an example. We were in a bookstore looking over children's books. Sandwiched in between some classic "Golden Books" was a story about seals. It had a very attractive cover picture with a beautiful harp seal. My kids loves stories about animals so I picked it off the shelf and gave it a quick scan. I was astonished at the content. Full of violent language and graphic pictures about hunting these seals. Both the written and graphic material would surely give little 4 - 5 year-olds nightmares. The book was actually written for this young audience and was not placed by accident in the children's section of the bookstore. I brought it to the attention of one of the clerks who quickly ushered it off the shelves, with apologies galore.

There are other stories I could share where my wife and I have come across other books written for children and discovered less graphic, but more subtle attempts by the authors to undermine the innocence of our children. Stories where the parents are made to look like idiots and the children behave disrespectfully or often times, violently against them. It all looks funny and harmless, but the subtle messages are being sent.

So with that, we decided to publish books on Amazon, like The Adventures of Bob and Joe, Volume 1 . There is nothing subversive or violent in these delightful stories. Emma Ward does a great job of putting together stories which teach the importance of friendship and fair play. Obviously we'd love for you to buy this book as we are invested in it and the author, but we think you will get a treasury of wonderful, safe, family friendly entertainment for your children. Please enjoy this story and many others that we have listed on this blog.

The Curious Little Kitten

Well, we're finally here, the number one book in our top ten list. First of all, let me say there are hundreds of books we could have put in this top ten list. I'm sure, everyone has their own top ten list of books and stories. The wonderful thing about reading to your children early in life, is the way you are able to discover so many wonderful books and authors.

But since this is our top ten list, we have our own number one book. It may come as a surprise to some of you, because I'm guessing this book isn't as well known as some of the others in this list. Our numero uno book is "The Curious Little Kitten" by Linda Hayward and illustrated by Maggie Swanson.

It's the story of a curious little kitten that doesn't get out much. She has a wonderful backyard which she explores, but as time goes on, she begins to wonder what is outside her known universe. There are walls and fences all around, what could be found on the other side? Does she dare investigate? Yes, she does.

She finds adventure and surprise in the yards surrounding hers. She is not a happy kitten, but she remains curious. The curiosity drives her to further discovery. Undaunted, she continues to explore and seek out the mysteries beyond her own existence. Okay, that may sound a little too dramatic and you're right. She basically goes looking around because she's a kitten and that's what they do.

That natural curiosity which little children and kittens share is the draw for the book. Linda Hayward knows this angle and continues to frame the story in a way that hooks the little reader (and parent). You begin to wonder what lies on the other side of the fence. Will it be trouble or joy?

Eventually, the little kitten's curiosity is rewarded with a wonderful surprise as she looks in the last yard. Third time is the charm for this little kitty. If you want to know what she finds, you'll have to get the book and "discover" it for yourself.

This is yet another example of good clean wholesome reading for your child. This book never disappoints and children love to have it read to them over and over again. The illustrations are also done in such a way as to lead the child through the story, as if no words were ever written on their pages. We would find our three year old daughter looking through the book, turning the pages one by one as she would retell the story to herself by simply looking at the pictures. This is a great little book and should be in every parent's or grandparent's home library.

Mo Willems -- Knuffle Bunny

In keeping with the theme of books you read to your younger children, our #2 book in our top 10 list is a cute story of a little girl and her stuffed animal. Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems, has lots of charm wrapped up in a relatively simplistic book.

One thing that strikes you immediately is how Mo Willems combines real life photography with illustrated, cartoonish characters. This was the first story we saw using this concept, but we envision this to become a standard technique for storytellers in the future. It does bring an element of realism and identity, not typically found in most children's stories. It really works in helping to tell us the story of early (mis)communication between daughter and daddy.

Trixie is a typical toddler who is in that stage of life where communication between kid and parent can be somewhat challenging. She speaks just enough words to please the parents, but not enough words to be clearly understood, especially by Dad who probably isn't around her 24/7, like Mom. In the end, it's the Mommy who serves as translator for the Daddy, as an exasperated Trixie looks on.

Knuffle Bunny will be enjoyed by your children, even beyond their toddler years. Parents around the world will give each other the "knowing nod" as they read through this story. Each page represents life with toddlers in such an insightful way. Mo Willems just nails this stage in parenting.

Only one book left to go. I'm sure you all have your ideas, as well as your own top 10 list. Feel free to comment about which books would be in your top ten. Also, see if you can guess what our #1 book will be. There are lots to choose from, so try out your luck, give it a shot. Or if you think we missed out on some classics, then let us know that too. We'd love to hear from you.

Mr. Putter and Tabby

Our #3 book comes from a familiar author, Cynthia Rylant. The Mr. Putter & Tabby series of books are a great read, just like the Henry and Mudge series. This time we find a charming elderly man who has a wonderful little cat named Tabby. They live next door to a sweet elderly lady, Ms. Teaberry, and her faithful, yet sometimes mischievous bulldog, Zeke.

Most of the stories surround the relationship of these four central characters and the adventures they go on together. Cynthia Rylant is very adept at portraying characters whom you cannot help but to fall in love with. The stories are wonderful and described in simple terms for young readers or listeners.

Children will be drawn into the world of these octogenarians and their pets. Our kids still repeat the mantra, "Beans, beans, only beans!" from one of their favorite Mr. Putter & Tabby books. It's no wonder why this title finds its way to #3 in our countdown. Enchanting, cute and always funny. Last week we said a kid and his dog was a winning recipe for a book; well, nothing wrong with and old person and his cat. Pick up your copy today. Your kids or grand kids will love you for it.

Henry and Mudge

Okay, who doesn't like to read a book about a kid and his dog; especially when that dog is big, slobbery and loves to eat crackers. Most kids love to read a series of books with consistent, lovable characters and Mudge definitely falls into that category.

Henry is identifiable to children. They see a lot of themselves in this boy who is simply navigating through childhood the best he can. The parents are portrayed as upstanding citizens with wisdom and patience. The story lines are simple, well thought out and easy to follow. These stories make children want to read.

What's nice about the Henry and Mudge series by Cynthia Rylant, is they develop the young readers abilities to stay with a story. They have all the appearance of a chapter book, but still retain the feel of a simple book. So these are great books to teach the idea of "story patience" to kids. Then at the end of the story, your child can say they read their first chapter book. This builds enthusiasm and love for reading.

Don't underestimate the concept of "accomplishment" in the minds of young readers. This can be a great motivational tool for kids as they grow and mature. I saw it in my kids and continue to see it in many others.

So pick up your copy today and find out why Henry and Mudge are #4 in our countdown.

Ferdinand the Bull

Ah, we're getting closer to number one. This week, we discuss our 5th all-time children's story. The jacket on this one got worn out in our house to be sure. The Story of Ferdinand is a classic tale about a bull who operates outside the boundaries of expectation. He is not a ferocious bull, he does not snort or stamp his feet. Rather, he just likes to sit in the shade of a cork tree and smell the flowers.

Ferdinand the Bull makes our list for several reasons. First of all, it is just a great story, with a wonderful plot line. The circumstances that draw Ferndinand into the bull ring are simple, yet ingenious. Who knew that sitting on a bee could turn a passive, gentle male cow into a rip snorting, matador-mangling, devil? Well, obviously Munro Leaf did. His story, coupled with Robert Dawson's drawings make this a masterpiece of children's literature.

The next reason we like this book so much is how Ferdinand the bull stays true to himself. There is so much emphasis on how children should be raised. Some parents feel pressure to do this or that with their kids because of what society is telling them. But in this story, his mom quickly realizes that her son is no ordinary bull, destined for the sting of the matador's blade. And she doesn't let pride or prejudice change her approach. Now granted, this might be a reach of analysis; but still, I think it's a wonderful element to draw out of this timeless story.

Finally, our kids loved this story. I can't tell you how many times we've read this story. Ironically, we just watched the Sandra Bullock movie, "The Blind Side" the other day. It is the modern retelling of the famed story, but Michael Oher substitutes for Ferdinand the bull. It is no peculiar coincidence that Munro Leaf's book is actually read in the movie.

So #5 in our countdown is The Story of Ferdinand, by Munro Leaf, illustrated by Robert Dawson. Enjoy!

Are You My Mother

The next book in our top 10 countdown of favorite books to read your younger children is Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman. We must have read this book over 200 times during the young years of our kids. But the great thing about is, once your child gets old enough to read by themselves, it serves as a perfect reader.

The repetition found in Dr. Seuss books are great for developing minds, as they quickly grasp words and their meanings. Parents may view this as a little, well...redundant, but repetition is like a key that unlocks the child's mind to wondrous understanding.

The poor little bird spends the entire book looking for its mother. After looking everywhere, the lost little traveler eventually stumbles across what looks like a steam shovel and then quickly realizes, this "snort" is not his mom. But with great care, the steam shovel returns the bird, gently back to the nest where the mother finally returns with breakfast. At last, the bird has found his mom.

It's a great book for teaching the meanings of words; however, the plot also flows from the pen of Mr. Eastman with great ease as he maneuvers this little creature through a wonderful adventure of discovery. A perfect parallel of your little one at home, discovering life through little adventures.

So at #6 we find the classic Are You My Mother?. Enjoy.

Guess How Much I Love You

At #7 we have an adorable pop-up book from Sam McBratney called Guess How Much I Love You. It details a story of how Little Nutbrown Hare is trying to show Big Nutbrown Hare how much he loves him. With each turn of the page, we discover the bunnies' love for each other grows and grows, each one seeming to outdo the other. But in the end, it's Big Nutbrown Hare who shows the reader how big unconditional love really is.

Now since it's a pop-up book, you'll have to be careful about reading it to the real young ones. They have a tendency to reach for the pop-ups, thus effectively hampering their ability to pop-up. But if you can keep their fingers away, this version is a great one to go with.

This story offers a great way of expressing your love to your child as the comparison of love moves from the Hare's to you and your family. This was a great story to teach family and love to our children, without looking like we were teaching them anything.

The artwork in this book is just as wonderful as the story. It resonates with the story as the muted yellows, browns and greens are just as gentle as the characters. This is yet another classic for your children and should be read aloud to your kids, especially before bedtime. Having the concept of love preached to them before they go off to beddy, is a great way to settle them down and give them confidence in their family unit...something kids value a great deal.

So get your copy today, pop-up or not, it's a great book to include in your library.

Goodnight Moon

There are so many amazing children's books. Take Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown. This used to be my children's favorite bedtime story. There is just something very sweet and innocent about this little rhyming story which makes it our #8 all time children's story.

This story is about a little toddler bunny who says goodnight to just about everything in the room. I know we can identify with the premise of this cute story. How many times have you told your young toddlers to tell the dog good night or the chair goodnight? I know we sure did.

It was a great way to introduce words to our children and the gentle rhyming sequencing just seems to work. As you read this book you can ask your child to point to the different items on the pages as you call them out.

I'll go back to it every time, there are few authors who can write cute little stories that pass the test of time. But some how, these older stories continue to amaze new parents with their characters and storylines.

So get your copy of Goodnight Moon today. Your children will love you for it.

If you love the Goodnight Moon story, then be sure to check out the loveable Bob and Joe Turtle series of books by Emma Ward.

The Poky Little Puppy

Continuing on with our top 10 list of favorite children's books, we have The Poky Little Puppy - A Little Golden Book coming in at #9. This is a classic children's book and a must-have for reading to your little ones or grandchildren.

Someone once described this book as a way of introducing "pokyness" to children in a way that didn't embarrass them. Let's face it, all children can be a little poky, especially when it comes to learning responsibility, like cleaning their room or getting ready to go somewhere. These were lessons I didn't really learn as a child, in fact, my wife still thinks I'm a little poky to this day. Maybe my parents should have read this to me when I was a little boy.

The puppies are great characters and are easily identifiable with children. They capture and then hold their interest as they go on their daily adventures. They are sweet and safe characters for your children.

This story is simple and quickly developed. These Little Golden Books are a real treasure and can be found on Amazon or any book retailer. Heck, you might even find them in a garage sale in your neighborhood. If you find one, then you must get it.

These books written from a bygone era have wonderful lessons and appeal to children even today. This is the perfect kind of story we here at Timothy House would love to have published, had we been in business back then. So get your copy today and enjoy the Poky Little Puppy.

The Going to Bed Book

Okay, who doesn't like a top 10 list. Especially when it comes to books. Our focus will take a slightly different approach. We will focus on our favorite children's books. These books will have a focus on language, learning, characters, and overall enjoyment.

We'll stay in the age group of 3-8 year olds.

#10 - The Going To Bed Book by Sandra Boynton.

What makes this book so great is the rhythm. Perfect for developing toddlers who are trying to master the english language. Sandra has a great feel for rhyming and language development. Often times our children would finish the line in the book after their mother and I would start.

Our kids loved this book and thought the pictures were great too. I personally love the artistry. It's both simple and descriptive. Perfect for conveying the meaning behind the words. You really couldn't ask for a better start-up book for toddlers.

So that is our first installment of our top 10 list. The next 9 are sure to be some of your favorites as well.

Welcome to Tim's House

Welcome to the launch of Timothy House Publishing (THP). You will find a diverse array of stories and ebooks available from THP. But there is one common theme running through them all, a family friendly approach.

Our first author is Emma Ward, who writes a series of children's books known as "The Adventures of Bob and Joe". These are great stories for children between the ages of 3-10 and take about 15 minutes to read aloud.

Bob and Joe are identical twin turtle brothers who love to race. They have racing adventures with their animal friends, like Arnold the Alligator, Sammy the Squirrel and many more. Each adventure teaches children the value of friendship, family and fair play. These stories embody the concept at Timothy House regarding family friendly content.

If you don't want to read the stories aloud, then don't worry. These are perfect early readers, written between a first and third grade level.

There are currently six stories available at Amazon.com, however, there is a Volume 1 Edition  which includes all these stories in one discounted package.

Here are the titles...

Bob and Joe in Our First Race
Bob and Joe in Abandon Ship
Bob and Joe in Skating with Penguins
Bob and Joe in The Chariot Race
Bob and Joe in The Serious Badger
Bob and Joe in Photo Finish
The Adventures of Bob and Joe, Volume 1