Pen Pearls - A potpourri of short stories, articles and poems - from children's works to drama, humor, romance and more. Some may make you laugh. Others may bring tears. Some will simply entertain. Life, love, curiosity, hope. Pearls from my pen . . . especially for you, my reader. This book is sprinkled with drawings by the author, and includes a word-fit puzzle, accompanied by an award winning painting on the back cover.

Seven-year-old Maya has lost her best friend, her Nana. When Nana's ashes are strew in the ocean, where Papa's ashes had been strewn, Maya sees a large blue dolphin who seems to be calling to someone, or something. Maya is convinced that this is her Papa coming to take Nana home with him. Although he parents try to tell her how impossible this is, nothing can shake her faith. Maya is the story of a child dealing with the loss of a family member. This story is a chapter book, primarily for the seven to ten year old, but is enjoyed by 'children' of all ages.

Bumble Frog was lonely. The other frogs in the pond would not play with him because he was 'different.' They laughed at him and called him names. But when Peter, a human boy who is also 'different, ' reaches out to help Bumble, both of their lives are changed, forever. Bumble Frog is a story of building friendships, and bonding. It is a feel good story for children from seven to ten years of age, although adults, as well as others, seem to enjoy this heartwarming story. It is a positive tale that is encouraging for those who feel different.

The final battle for the domination of the worlds has begun. Wizard against wizard, dragon against dragon. Golems and hideous monsters battle with the peoples of both the inner and outer realms. One wizard . . . determined to rule without mercy. His primary adversary? The son he abandoned at birth. 'The Final Battle' is the climax of the fantasy series "The Gift," and according to professional editor, Mike Foley, this series in one you will want to read over and over again. Although primarily written for young people, adults will also find these books enjoyable and compelling. - M. F.

Jason was in a quandary. His father had given him an ultimatum - find a bride, woo and wed her within six months time, or he would choose a bride for him - good mother material. But Jason wanted to marry for love, not because his father, the king, wanted grandchildren. After five months, time was running out and his father's choice was looming over his head. But when an unexpected source gives him a possible way out, does he obey his father's wishes or follow his heart? This is a fairy tale that adults will enjoy as much as children will.

Kelp's only goal in life seems to be to get some 'lucky mermaid' to play Spin-the-Conch, but unfortunately has had no success in his venture. Pearl, his younger sister, tells him, as future king of the ocean realm, he must forego his desire and make something of himself, or forfeit the kingship. When these mer-teens, see an old enemy at the sunken treasure ship, they know the kingdom is in trouble. Can they save the royal treasure, and will Kelp ever get a mermaid to play Spin-the-Conch? This chapter book is a spin-off of "The Gift" series, to be enjoyed by younger readers, and to encourage...