Books - Author Caren Cantrell | Children's Author

Caren Cantrell Books

Childhood literacy is a passion of mine and I’m so happy to be able to contribute to that passion through my own writing. Ages 0 to 5 are critical years in developing a child’s love for reading. These are the years when they are discovering the magic of words, learning how to exist in the world around them, and forming relationships. Picture books help a child navigate through the seas of information and feelings being tossed at him or her daily.

Learn More

Review by Readers

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!

I received a pre-publication copy of Leo Learns to Swim from the author. I loved it! The illustrations are adorable and will engage readers as they identify with Leo and Starfish, two characters who encourage developing little ones to embrace determination, self-acceptance, and grit. I will definitely use this book when working as a professional school counselor, as well as, with my own children and friends. Leo Learns to Swim is a fun book that will entertain, and offer the opportunity for conversations about dealing with challenges.

Jamie Frank Oconnell

My daughter loves all Caren Cantrell books...she especially loved this one since her best friend's name is Violet! She loves connecting with the books and loves everything to do with Fairies! Thank you

Kristen Raymond

I ordered two for my great nephews and was delighted in the story. Not only were the illustrations very cute but the story itself takes us on a wonderful adventure. Who would have thought that socks had so much character? I loved that the story had some excitement and even a moment where you worry about what will happen to Annie but (spoiler alert) it all turns out happily.

I definitely recommend this for young children who will keep this on their bookshelves to be read over and over.

L A Keller

Stay Tuned for Updates

I send thoughtful and caring emails