Tag: #ChildrensBooks

Wings of Wisdom Series: New Editions for the Holidays

We’ve been working hard around here to get the second editions of our Wings of Wisdom Series up and available for purchase in time for the holidays. Each book features expanded tales that delve deeper into the stories and characters we know and love, accompanied by some stunning additional artwork to enjoy that truly brings the narratives to life. As an added touch, we’ve opted for a small typeface for a more traditional-style interior look, reminiscent of classic literature, which will evoke a sense of nostalgia and charm. We are excited to share these enriched editions with you and hope that they will be a delightful addition to your holiday reading list.

You can find the discounted sales prices using the links below!

Kella and the Sky Dances: A timeless children's be ….
Elmendorf, M. M. and Lee, Joanne and Hopson, D. B.
Adventure Over Thunder Mountain: An East Asian Adv ….
Elmendorf, M. M. and Hopson, D. B.
Princess Maja and the Zmaj: A timeless fairy-tale ….
Elmendorf, M. M. and Lee, Joanne and Hopson, D. B.
A Moon Dragon for Emmaline: A timeless bedtime tal ….
Elmendorf, M. M. and Lee, Joanne and Hopson, D. B.

Side Note for Local Readers

If you’re in the Tri-State area, don’t forget to stop by the Bradley Square Mall in Cleveland, TN on December 14 for the book signing event at Plus Ultra Coffee, starting at noon. There will be free giveaways, opportunities to get your books personally signed, and even a few fun surprises waiting to be revealed. Come join the celebration and make a magical afternoon of it!

Cleveland, TN’s Plus Ultra Coffee, in Bradley Square Mall, is a fan-favorite anime coffee shop, famous for its drinks, manga, merchandise, and events, making a space for fans to connect.  Key Features:

  • Anime Theme: Decor, themed drinks (like “Red Eyes” coffee), and collectibles (Funko Pops, stickers) cater to anime fans.
  • Diverse Menu: Offers lattes, boba tea, smoothies, pastries, and quick bites, with options for dietary needs like alternative milks.
  • Community Hub: Hosts trivia nights, game tournaments, and themed events to build community.
  • Manga Wall: A unique feature where customers can read manga for free.
  • Local Support: Sources coffee from Inman Street Roasters, supporting local businesses. 

Meet Roderick: A Dragon Facing Big Changes

Every hero has a beginning, and for Roderick, that beginning is in the lush, green hills of Wales. Growing up surrounded by friends and the freedom of the skies, Roderick cherished his home. Flying over rolling valleys, playing with other dragons, and exploring hidden caves—life was exactly how a young dragon would dream it to be.

But life has a way of surprising even the happiest of hearts. One day, Roderick’s parents announce a major change: the family must move to the wild and untamed expanses of Russia. Wales, they explain, is becoming crowded, and they want Roderick to have space to grow, explore, and fly freely—without the constant fear of humans misunderstanding their kind.

🌟 A Story for Children Navigating Change

Roderick’s Perilous Journey is more than a magical adventure; it’s a story that resonates with children who face life’s unexpected changes. Sometimes, decisions are made by others—parents, guardians, or mentors—that are for our safety and growth, even if they are hard to understand at first. Roderick’s journey shows young readers how courage, adaptation, and friendship can help them navigate these moments with resilience and hope.

🎨 Leo Chen: Bringing Roderick’s World to Life

Of course, Roderick’s story is brought to life in full color by the extraordinary Leo Chen. His art captures not only the beauty of Wales and the wild Russian landscapes but also the emotion, humor, and heart of every scene. Every illustration invites readers into Roderick’s world and allows them to feel the highs and lows of his journey firsthand.

A sketch of a dragon with curved horns and wings, leaning over a young person wrapped in a cloak, surrounded by trees and foliage.

✨ Stay Tuned for the Adventure

The journey isn’t over—Roderick’s Perilous Journey is preparing for its launch later this year! Subscribe today to get exclusive updates, sneak peeks, and a chance to follow along as the story and illustrations take shape. Be part of the adventure from the very beginning and watch Roderick soar into a new world.

An illustration featuring a dragon and aquatic creatures sitting around a fire in an underwater setting. The characters, including a green-skinned creature and a dolphin, are engaged in a meal, with bubbles rising in the water and plants around them.

📚 Adventure, courage, and heart await—join us on the journey!

Meet Beloved Story Characters at Our Event

📅 Dates & Locations: Coming Soon!

🎉 Join us for an enchanting afternoon of stories, imagination, and adventure! Meet Your Favorite Story Characters! Perfect for young readers and families who love fantastical tales!

📚 Featured Books: • Adventure Over Thunder Mountain • Kella and the Sky Dances • Princess Maja and the Zmaj • A Moon Dragon for Emmaline

🌟 Meet the author, get your books signed, and embark on magical adventures!

📱 STAY UPDATED! Follow Ford Mountain Publishing HERE or on Instagram; Follow M. M. Elmendorf Hopson on Facebook for event dates, locations, and exclusive updates!

Folklore, Dragons, and Snow Maidens: The Roots of Roderick’s Perilous Journey

Every great children’s story begins with a spark of imagination, and sometimes that spark is found deep in the traditions of folklore. In the upcoming Roderick’s Perilous Journey, author M. M. Elmendorf Hopson draws upon the rich myths of both Wales and Russia to bring her characters to life in ways that feel both timeless and new.

🐉 The Welsh Dragon Tradition

Dragons have long been symbols of Wales—strength, courage, and resilience woven into their national identity. Young Roderick, the Welsh dragon at the heart of our tale, reflects that spirit, though his journey is not about conquest but about friendship, sacrifice, and stepping beyond what is familiar.

A sketch of a whimsical dragon amidst a forest, highlighting its playful character and intricate details in a fantasy setting.
An illustration of a friendly Welsh dragon lying in a snowy forest, surrounded by frosty pine trees and a small bird, capturing a whimsical and magical atmosphere.

❄️ The Snow Maiden: Snegurka’s Legacy

Perhaps the most intriguing folkloric influence is Snegurka, or the Snow Maiden, a figure beloved in Russian tales. Traditionally, she is depicted as a girl made of snow, often innocent and tragic, destined to melt away when she encounters human love.

In Roderick’s Perilous Journey, M. M. Elmendorf Hopson has reimagined Snegurka while honoring her roots. Rather than a passive figure, this Snow Maiden becomes a true friend and driving force of the story—her fate entwined with Roderick’s courage. By weaving together classic motifs with fresh storytelling, Snegurka transforms from folklore into a character children can empathize with and root for.

A character design sheet featuring various hat concepts for a female character, showcasing eight different styles labeled A to H.
Sketches of three different character designs for Snegurka, the Snow Maiden, showcasing various clothing styles and poses.
A collection of character designs featuring various outfits inspired by winter themes, showcasing different styles in shades of blue, white, and red, alongside color swatches.

🎨 Bringing Folklore to Life in Art

Words alone could never capture the full beauty of this tale, which is why we are so grateful for the incredible talents of Leo Chen. His art style and masterful use of color breathe life into every page—capturing icy landscapes, fiery volcanoes, and the delicate magic of Snegurka herself. Each illustration feels like a window into a world where folklore and imagination meet.

✨ Stay Connected

Roderick’s Perilous Journey is launching later this year, and we can’t wait to share more glimpses as the story continues to unfold. Subscribe today to keep up to date with this release and all of the imaginative projects Ford Mountain Publishing is bringing to life.

📚 Together, we’re building stories that inspire, delight, and stay with readers for years to come.

Princess Maja and the Zmaj — A Tale of Courage and Friendship

When a Princess Must Become Her Own Hero

What happens when a princess loses her kingdom and must rely on unexpected allies to reclaim it? Princess Maja and the Zmaj is a classic-style youth story that answers this question with a blend of adventure, magic, and heart.

Set in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, the story follows Princess Maja, who is forced from her kingdom by the evil Lord Andrej. With her parents imprisoned, Maja teams up with Spiridon, a half-transformed zmaj, and Bogdan, a mysterious star dragon, to embark on a quest to find her estranged uncle and save her kingdom.

The Heart of the Story

This tale is about more than just reclaiming a throne; it’s about discovering inner strength, the power of friendship, and the courage to face overwhelming odds. Maja’s journey is one of self-discovery and resilience, showing readers that even in the darkest times, hope and bravery can light the way.

Why This Book Matters

  • Classic Adventure: Inspired by the works of Lucy Maud Montgomery, C.S. Lewis, and Ursula K. Le Guin, this story offers timeless themes of courage and friendship.
  • Magical Elements: The inclusion of a zmaj and a star dragon adds a layer of fantasy that will captivate young readers.
  • Empowering Message: Maja’s journey encourages children to believe in themselves and the power of their choices.

Who This Story Is For

  • Ages 8–12: Perfect for young readers who enjoy fantasy adventures.
  • Fans of Classic Tales: Ideal for those who appreciate stories with deep themes and rich characters.
  • Families and Educators: A great addition to bedtime reading or classroom libraries.

Final Thoughts from the Author

Writing Princess Maja and the Zmaj was a journey of its own. Drawing inspiration from classic literature and weaving in elements of magic and adventure, I aimed to create a story that not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and self-belief. I hope readers find as much joy in Maja’s story as I did in telling it.

👉 Find Princess Maja and the Zmaj on Amazon

A promotional image featuring the book 'Princess Maja and the Zmaj', showcasing a magical landscape with a princess and a dragon, along with details about the author, illustrator, and publication information.

Let’s Connect

Have you ever read a story that made you believe in your own strength? Share your experiences in the comments below — let’s inspire each other!