#Authorinterview with Chen Junhua

Today, Feathered Quill reviewer Kathy Stickles is talking with Chen Junhua, author of The Dance of the Sambar Deer and More Singaporean Fables.

FQ: This is such a lovely book and I really enjoyed reading it. What made you decide to put these fables down on paper?

JUNHUA: I used to be a teacher and then when my students made mistakes I would often think of relatable fables and use it during those teachable moments. However, most of the stories that I've shared with my students were based on generic animals much like Aesop's fables. After telling the stories, I would try to remember them and type them out on a document. Eventually, I managed to compile 10 stories and thought how nice it would be if I could make them into my first collection of fables. That was my first book and after the success of that first book, I began to work on this second book.

FQ: Do you have a personal favorite among the ten stories in the book?

JUNHUA: As the father of these stories, it's really hard to pick favorites. However, If I were to really choose, it would have to be Dance of the Sambar Deer. It is like a coming-of-age story that sort of reflects my current state of mind; where everyone, including myself, often forgets to take stock of how far we have come and how much we have grown.

FQ: Are these stories that you heard as a child or did you set out to research the stories and culture of a specific place and just chose Singapore?

JUNHUA: Setting the stories in Singapore was a no-brainer because I'm from Singapore. The reason for that is also because many people think that Singapore is a concrete jungle and mistakenly think that we do not have many animals that are native or unique to our tiny island country. Thus, I felt that it was a duty of mine to raise their awareness.

FQ: The illustrations are fabulous. Do you and the illustrator work together one story at a time or do you write the whole book first and then pass it along so the pictures can be created?

JUNHUA: We usually have to write the story first because the illustrations take very long to do. The reason for this is because during the editing process, sometimes there may be major changes to the characters or even the action of the animals. Thus, to avoid abortive work, we only begin the illustrating process only after the stories have been cleared.

FQ: What does the future hold for you as an author…more fables from Singapore, fables from another country, or something completely different?

JUNHUA: Besides being the author of these 2 fables collections, I also have a Fairy Tale fantasy story, Library of Mystory, which I am currently trying to make into a full featured animated movie. Also, I'm currently working on my 3rd fables collection, with some ideas slated for the 4th book as well.

FQ: Is there anything in your personal background that has influenced the way that you write or what you write about?

JUNHUA: As mentioned, I was a teacher for over 15 years and I feel that definitely influenced the purpose of why I write. I feel that values are the most important things that parents and educators can instill in children, thus I want to create stories that do just that.

FQ: What do you enjoy the most about being an author?

JUNHUA: I love that I'm able to impact others' lives with my stories and help them learn valuable lessons about life.

FQ: What advice would you give to an aspiring author?

JUNHUA: Be open to criticism. Understand that the book-writing process is a long one and that the version that you presented to the person is unlikely to be the final version that will go out into the world anyway. One of the toughest critics will be your editor, but understand that they also want the same thing as you, which is to help your book prosper. Thus, do not take any critique of your story as an attack on you. Instead, take a step back, let go of your ego and listen with an open mind to see why they are saying the things they are saying. You may not agree with everything they say, but learn to pick your battles well so that when there are instances where you really wish to hold firm on, you will be more persuasive and likely to get your way.

FQ: Are there any authors that you have read that had a big impact on you?

JUNHUA: Besides the Dan Browns and JK Rowlings that most people would have probably read, I particularly find self-help books very impactful. In fact, I would say that Stephen R. Covey's The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People was the book that changed my life.

I was introduced to the book by my ex-Principal in my first school, back then, he would be intentional in aligning how he runs the school with the principles shared in the book. It was the first time I've heard of the book and it forced me to go purchase a copy and read it. It's had a profound impact on my life and the way I live it, and I've even shared it with my siblings who also greatly benefited from the book.

FQ: What message(s) do you hope readers will take away with them after reading this book?

JUNHUA: Of course, other than the morals that accompany each fable, there is a central theme that I wanted to share with my readers. You will see that many stories are about adopting a new perspective to things, like in A House for Herman, it's about seeing with gratitude, the things that you already possess, just like in A Tale of Two Turtles, it's about seeing losing a friend might not be such a bad thing after all.

However, most importantly, I also hope that the readers don't just see the morals that I wrote at the end of the stories but find their own takeaways from each of the stories I've written.

 #Bookreview of Ponderosa Pines: Days of the Deadwood Forest Fire

By: Annette Gagliardi

Publisher: Pocahantas Press

Publication Date: September 17, 2022

ISBN: 978-1955338073

Reviewed by: Diana Coyle

Review Date: May 9, 2025

It started out as a normal day in 1959 for the citizens of Deadwood, South Dakota in Ponderosa Pines: Days of the Deadwood Forest Fire by Annette Gagliardi. The residents went to work and it was the first day of school for the children. But things took a drastic turn for all of them when they discovered that a forest fire had broken out and evacuations were starting. People left work early, school dismissed the children to get home as soon as possible, and emergency workers, both paid and volunteer, were deployed to different sections to start tackling this blaze. Although the fire only lasted a few days, it resulted in utter devastation to Deadwood and the surrounding areas.

The first thing that stood out about this story was it was written by Annette, the second eldest daughter to Bill and Anne. The book read like a narration coming directly from Annette’s personal account of what happened to her family and the towns surrounding Deadwood. It gave it such a personal feeling while turning the pages, and it enhanced seeing the story unfold through her eyes from start to finish.

Right from the beginning, the sense of urgency and panic was extremely present. You felt what Annette and her family went through from the first emergency message reaching everyone, to the final message that the fire was finally under control days later. Since Annette came from an extremely large family that included not only her parents and her and seven siblings, but also the additional extended family members, including her aunt and uncle and their five children, this made for a story that was different than any other historical retelling out there.

As readers turn the pages, they will feel the mixed emotions immediately from not only Annette’s main point of view, but of all her family members. Most of the children were under 12 years old, so you can hear and feel their panic and uncertainty of what was going to happen. You can easily step into any one of the characters’ footsteps, and feel what they were feeling. The sense of losing everything they worked hard for was predominant throughout. One can only imagine how scared everyone was that one day they have a roof over their heads, and the next they were worrying that all 17 of them could very well be homeless if the forest fire wasn’t contained quickly enough.

Quill says: Readers will become fully immersed in Ponderosa Pines: Days of the Deadwood Forest Fire by Annette Gagliardi, making it easy to develop feelings for all the characters that played a role throughout this story. Well done, Ms. Gagliardi!

For more information about Ponderosa Pines: Days of the Deadwood Forest Fire, please visit the author's website at: annette-gagliardi.com

 #Bookreview of Dark Device of the Great Chasm: A Windtracer Tale

By: C.B. Ash

Publisher: Fabled Horizon Press

Publication Date: April 25, 2025

ISBN: 979-8992610116

Reviewed by: Lily Andrews

Review Date: May 12, 2025

Dark Device of the Great Chasm: A Windtracer Tale by C.B Ash is a fun, fast-paced fantasy adventure set in a world filled with ancient ruins, dangerous relics, and magic storms that follows Windtracer Tela Kioni, a sharp-tongued explorer who’s always in the middle of trouble and somehow always makes it out. She discovers a potent artifact from a vanished civilization, much to her surprise, but quickly learns that she might not be the only one who wants to keep it. A shady rival group called the Crimson Company gets hot on her trail, and they’ll stop at nothing to take the relic for themselves.

We meet Tela barely outrunning creepy monsters and enemy mercenaries in a jungle full of magical dangers. She does, however manage to escape with the relic, only to find out her troubles are just beginning. A bigger, more dangerous mission lies ahead which is to find something called the Automatic Crystal of the Eclipse, a mysterious, ancient device that could be a powerful weapon or something much worse. The hunt is on to locate it before it ends up in the wrong hands, particularly those of a ruthless baron who wishes to restore the dominance of a forgotten Ancient Order, on his own terms.

As Tela gathers her old team and sets off across the continent, we get pulled into a rich, detailed world full of clever dialogue, strange creatures, secret maps, and thrilling action scenes. The journey takes readers from deep jungle ruins to underground cities, as well as from quiet markets to secret-filled archives. Along the way, the characters face physical dangers and tough choices, all while trying to uncover truths that have been lost for a thousand years.

The protagonist's character development is what really makes this novel stand out. She is caustic, obstinate, and extremely intelligent—a cross between Indiana Jones and a cranky cat with a golden heart. Her friendship with Kiyosi, a healer with a practical mind and a sharp wit, adds humor and warmth to the story. Then there’s Tyre, an old smuggler with a hidden soft side, who rounds out the trio perfectly.

The writing is fast and clear, filled with action and just the right amount of world-building. You don’t need to remember every magical term or location to enjoy the story—it explains things naturally as you go. Readers will find the world of Awldor to be wonderfully drawn, feeling real, and filled with stunning mysteries. Notably, the way antique technology and fantasy collide offers the story a novel twist. If there's one thing to note, it's that some parts of the story may feel a bit heavy with history or long conversations about relics. But remarkably, those moments lead back to something exciting, like a fight, a chase, or a major discovery.

Quill says: Dark Device of the Great Chasm: A Windtracer Tale by C.B. Ash is a must read for fans of fantasy, especially those who love adventures with smart, tough heroines and ancient mysteries. It’s also perfect for young adult readers who enjoy stories like Tomb Raider, The Mandalorian, or The Witcher—but with more teamwork, less gloom, and a whole lot more compelling. Tela Kioni is a hero you’ll want to follow, even into the deepest, most dangerous chasms.

For more information on Dark Device of the Great Chasm: A Windtracer Tale, please visit the author's website at: www.cb-ash.com

 #Bookreview of PANACEA: The Age of AG

By: Richard Bailey

Publisher: Atmosphere Press

Publication Date: June 24, 2025

ISBN: 979-8891326774

Reviewed by: Ephantus Muriuki

Review Date: May 8, 2025

Readers will find themselves instantly drawn into the world of PANACEA: The Age of AG, a futuristic, all-inclusive paradise where every need is met before you even think to ask. Set in the 31st century, this novel by Richard Bailey introduces Dolthea Madras Thorpe, a sixteen-year-old living in a tropical dome where life is easy, perfect... and strangely empty. It’s a place run by AG, an all-powerful Artificial Super Intelligence that keeps things “safe” by controlling every detail of daily life. However, at first glance, it may appear to be an exquisite dream world, until indications emerge that point to something dark lurking beneath the surface.

What really stands out is how Dolthea’s story starts off feeling so chill — she’s just a girl who’s restless and bored, wondering if life is supposed to feel more meaningful. But everything changes when AG announces her dome is being shut down. Her emotions are raw as she ponders over this ruthless, nonsensical decision that points to some people leaving in order for others to live.

From there, the story takes off. Dolthea and her group of friends — all fully fleshed-out and lovable in their own messy, flawed ways — go from carefree teens to resistance fighters, not because they want to be heroes, but because they refuse to go down without a fight. Readers will love how real and raw their emotions are: the fear, the anger, the loyalty, the moments of doubt. It’s not a polished rebellion. It’s scrappy, chaotic, and full of heart.

What’s really amazing about this tale is how Bailey doesn’t just focus on the action, although there is plenty. The story goes deep into the emotional side of things — what it means to be alive, to have choices, to question everything you’ve ever believed. Readers will appreciate how the book doesn’t spoon-feed answers but makes one feel the questions through the characters’ experiences. Although there is a lot of high-stakes drama, the friendships and emotional growth will be what will mostly enthrall them.

Dolthea's growth is very impressive and dramatic and watching her grow from a girl who feels adrift in a breath-taking environment to someone who takes charge of her destiny is tremendously fulfilling. Her friends — brave, sarcastic, brilliant, and sometimes reckless — add so much depth and heart to the story. Fans of character-driven stories will absolutely love this crew.

Bailey’s writing is clear and immersive, with vivid descriptions of the domed world that make you feel like you’re actually there. Readers may be surprised at how quickly the author shifts the plot's tone — from light and breezy to dramatic and devastating. The use of language flows naturally while maintaining a steady pace, and the world-building is sparse enough to illustrate the plot without overwhelming readers with science fiction jargon.

Quill says: Readers of PANACEA: The Age of AG will appreciate the story’s central themes of freedom, choice, and the battle to matter in a controlling environment. Those who enjoy novels that raise significant issues regarding technology, trust, and the meaning of life will find it very meaningful. While it is an exciting sci-fi adventure, it is also a narrative of the strength of friendship, the dare to challenge the rules, and the struggle to make your voice heard — even when the odds are stacked against you. Readers will come for the action in this story but stay for the heart.

For more information about PANACEA: The Age of AG, please visit the publisher's website at: atmospherepress.com/books/panacea-the-age-of-ag-by-richard-carson-bailey

 #Bookreview of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Sea Star

By: Kathleen Welton

Illustrated by: Chau Pham

Publisher: Bookfox Press

Publication Date: April 10, 2025

ISBN: 979-8-89900-002-7

Reviewed by: Nellie Calanni

Review Date: May 8, 2025

In Twinkle, Twinkle Little Sea Star, author Kathleen Welton takes young readers on an enchanting underwater journey, transforming the familiar lullaby into a tale of wonder and discovery beneath the waves. With captivating illustrations and gentle, rhythmic prose, Welton creates a soothing, whimsical world where readers are invited to explore life under the sea through the eyes of sea stars.

From shimmering coral gardens to schools of glittering fish, each page bursts with vibrant imagery that beautifully complements the lyrical narrative. The sea star's journey is one of friendship and exploration, meeting playful dolphins, graceful jellyfish, and other sea creatures that sparkle with life and color. Welton’s use of rhyme and repetition not only mirrors the classic lullaby's melody but also makes it perfect for bedtime reading, instilling a sense of calm and joy.

At its heart, Twinkle, Twinkle Little Sea Star is a celebration of curiosity and the benefits of teamwork, encouraging young minds to dream big and explore the unknown. Its gentle storytelling and captivating visuals make it an ideal addition to any child’s bookshelf – a bedtime favorite that both children and parents will treasure.

Quill says: Kathleen Welton's Twinkle, Twinkle Little Sea Star is a magical undersea adventure that shines brightly with imagination and heart, perfect for inspiring sweet dreams.

For more information about Twinkle, Twinkle Little Sea Star, please visit the author’s website at kathywelton.com

 #Bookreview of A White Duck in a Black Pond: Race, Identity, and Privilege

By: Dane Wycoff

Publisher: Atmosphere Press

Publication Date: June 24, 2025

ISBN: 979-8891326712

Reviewed by: Diana Coyle

Review Date: May 7, 2025

A White Duck in a Black Pond: Race, Identity, and Privilege by Dane Wycoff is a poignant memoir that will have readers eagerly turning the pages and hoping that Dane and his two siblings find some peace within their community and themselves as they grow up in the 1950s.

Dane and his two siblings grew up in an interracial family, with their mother being White and their father African American. One complication from this mixed pedigree is the children appear to be white-skinned and the location where they live is an African American community. This causes many challenges for the children, especially for Dane, as he believes himself to be fully African American despite his appearance suggesting otherwise. Dane never seems to fit in no matter where they live or where they attend school. Compounding Dane’s challenging life is the fact that his father doesn’t financially support his children.

This is a deep, soulful telling of how Dane and his two siblings felt and dealt with the many setbacks they were presented with as they grew up. Their mother did the best she could by working hard and eventually moving up the ladder at the bank where she worked, but their father never took any responsibility for financially, emotionally, or mentally raising his three children. Readers will feel the pain that Dane experienced at each stage of his life from childhood to adulthood. Growing up in the 1950s only complicated the already tough life Dane and his siblings had to endure through the years.

This book is filled with many emotions, and at times you can see how conflicted Dane felt as he tried to process the situations in which he found himself. As his mother moved up the corporate ladder at the bank, she was able to move herself and her children out of the projects to a better community in hopes of a better way of life, but this move was not an instant solution to the difficulties faced by Dane and his family.

Despite the challenges that Dane faced, he succeeded in furthering his education by earning his MBA magna cum laude. The resilience of this author should be viewed by all people as a form of strength while facing many adversities. It is a true testament that even when facing numerous hardships, one can still achieve greatness.

Quill says: A White Duck in a Black Pond: Race, Identity, and Privilege by Dane Wycoff will have readers cheering for the author as he faces each adversity head on. Readers who may be experiencing similar difficulties will empathize with the author’s experiences and leave with the message that strength and perseverance through difficult situations can help you build pride and character in yourself.

For more information about A White Duck in a Black Pond: Race, Identity, and Privilege, please visit the publisher's website at: atmospherepress.com/books/a-white-duck-in-a-black-pond-race-identity-and-privilege-by-dane-wycoff

 #Bookreview of The Tempests of Time: Ages of Malice, Book IV

By: Lloyd Jeffries

Publisher: Buckminster Publishing

Publication Date: May 5, 2025

ISBN: 979-8-9906209-1-9

Reviewed by: Kathy Stickles

Review Date: May 5, 2025

In the fourth book of the Ages of Malice series, author Lloyd Jeffries has picked up the story right where book three left off and, let me tell you readers, that this is one incredible book. Since I have had the pleasure of reviewing this series from the very beginning and, having loved everything about it, I can say with complete honesty that The Tempests of Time is Lloyd Jeffries’s best book so far and that is saying a lot since each one has been absolutely riveting.

At the start of The Tempests of Time, the entire world is falling apart with some of said world completely destroyed from a nuclear attack. Emery Merrick, our favorite protagonist, is still working for Cain although he spends a great deal of this book in some type of a “coma” that the other characters cannot seem to understand or fix. In the meantime, while Rhyme is trying to figure out how to help Emery, her ex-husband and the man she will always love, she also has to figure out how to spoil her evil husband’s plans for world domination. While Emery is on his own journey, for real or in his mind – I will let the reader decide – Rhyme attempts to save everyone with the help of some old acquaintances and some new friends. Unfortunately, along the way, she learns that not everyone she trusts is truly a friend.

While the storytelling in The Tempests of Time is, as always, exciting and fast-paced, this book gives readers a different type of plotline as we spend a lot of time in Emery’s dreams delving into the backstories of many of the characters. It will really change your outlook on a lot of the individuals in the story and who they really are. I was stunned by so much of the story and felt that this author has really outdone himself. The things we learn about many characters, both the good and the bad ones, make each of the personalities stand out even more to the reader and leave you wondering what is next for them.

If you have been a fan since the beginning, and I certainly hope this is the case, you will know that the books are based in religion. One of the things I enjoy the most is that the author is able to write and present all of this religious background in an unbiased and very appealing way. Mr. Jeffries gives a look into recognizable religious happenings that does not focus on one specific religion but rather a “multireligious” view. The writing is superb and the storyline absolutely thrilling.

One thing I would recommend to all is that, if you have not already done so, you read the first three books in the series. There is so much going on in these stories and, as a reader, you will be denying yourself a lot of excitement and understanding of what is going if you attempt to start in the middle.

I can assure you that this is a series that is well worth taking the time to read from the very beginning. From captivating characters (both mortal and immortal) to historical and biblical tales to spellbinding action, The Tempests of Time has everything you will want in a book. I am on the edge of my seat waiting to see what comes next for these characters.

Quill says: The Tempests of Time is an incredible addition to a very powerful series and should not be missed. The only thing at this point that could make the Ages of Malice series better would be if it could go on forever!

For more information about The Tempests of Time: Ages of Malice, Book IV, please visit the author's website at: https://lloydjeffries.com/