About - Author Caren Cantrell | Children's Author

Caren Cantrell

Hi, I’m Caren. I write stories about characters who are a little different and don’t quite fit in with everyone else. They might have a flipper that’s too short or whiskers that curl. Or they might just be vertically challenged like me. I love describing the adventures of an underdog who rises to the challenge.

I’ve written ten picture books and a middle-grade science fantasy novel called The Sun Thief. Writing for kids is something I’ve wanted to do since I was little. I have ten lovely grandchildren who helped me get started. I’ve written books for each of them with a main character who shares their name. My next adventure will be a chapter book series for kids 6 to 8.

I also have a non-fiction series of books on Kindle that are part of the Planet Discovery Books for Kids series. I write these under the pen name Matthew Taylor. They are books filled with fun facts and photos about the creatures in the world around us.

Writing for children is awesome, but reading to them is even better. My three favorite words are:
Read It Again!

Saturday Safari by Caren Cantrell is an illustrated adventure story. We follow Elliott, a young boy, as he explores outside his home, using his imagination to enhance what he sees. Ordinary objects turn into a safari ride quest filled with danger, excitement, and lots of fun. I absolutely loved this book. The artwork by Gail Maguire perfectly represents what Elliott sees in his mind. It is filled with abundant color and detail. I can imagine children wanting to see these pictures repeatedly.

The story itself pushes Elliott into the great outdoors, where true adventure awaits. Note that he isn't using any form of electronics to entertain himself, but rather allows his imagination to take him where no game or movie could ever go. This is a personal adventure that Elliott creates, his own world in which he imagines being whatever he wants. Children who read books such as these are inspired to think for themselves, leaving the imagination unfettered and free to develop. The can be anyone, do anything, go anywhere.

I also appreciate the support of the parent. She is there to encourage him, and her desire to view the pictures at the end of the story simply reinforces to Elliott how important his own personal adventures are. Saturday Safari captures the significance of imagination in children and throws it out there in story form for all to see. It is a bright, positive message that will inspire children everywhere. Highly recommended.

Bruce Arrington for Readers' Favorite, Book Reviewer

Wren’s Whiskers by Caren Cantrell is an adorable story with an equally adorable message woven through the tale of Wren the mouse, that of embracing our uniqueness and standing tall in our power. Wren has curly whiskers which is a big problem for a mouse. She trips a lot and bumps into the walls. She wants to be a cheerleader like her best friend, Lilah, but they do not let her as her whiskers are not straight. Wren tries a lot of things to make them straight, but nothing works. She asks Lilah if she can try a few cheers with them when they practice and Wren is great with her springy whiskers. She gets a chance to prove her mettle at the Cheer Championship when Maggie hurts her leg.

The story is about self-acceptance and it is encouraging to see Wren doing well with her curly whiskers after she is initially rejected. The illustrations are charming and they give clarity to the author’s words and the concept. It is a good bedtime storybook and is perfect for read aloud and storytelling sessions in classrooms because of its message. Educators, counselors, and therapists will also find this story helpful if they are dealing with children suffering from low self-esteem. Wren’s character will encourage and inspire a lot of children, especially those who feel different and that they do not fit in with everyone else. Storybooks like this are uplifting and children should be encouraged to read them often so that they become motivated and confident when it comes to accepting themselves.

Mamta Madhavan, Readers' Favorite - 5 Stars!

You might be surprised at the list of the deadliest creatures, I know I was. The pop-up feature with additional information is a nice touch and I thought the photos were great!

H Kelso

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