Books in the Hall: Tiny Green Unicorns by Renée James

Monday, July 31, 2023

Tiny Green Unicorns by Renée James

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Renée James will award a $15 Amazon or BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

What books were your favorite as a youth and why?

During my primary school years, my favourite books were all written by two of the most celebrated authors of children's literature: Roald Dahl and R.L. Stine. I was captivated by Dahl's imaginative and whimsical stories, from the beloved "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" to the hilarious "The Twits." As for Stine's "Goosebumps" series, they were the perfect mix of suspense, horror, and humour. Each book was a new adventure that kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating what would happen next. Looking back, I'm grateful for the joy and excitement these books brought me, and they will always hold a special place in my heart.

What’s your favorite sweet treat?

For me, warm and gooey chocolate chip cookies are pure bliss. The combination of the rich, melty chocolate and the soft, buttery cookie is simply irresistible. One bite and I'm transported back to my childhood. Yum yum yum!

What did you want to be when you grew up? Why?

Storytelling has always been a part of me - I can't remember a time when I didn't enjoy it. Even when I was a toddler, I would narrate stories without hesitation. As I grew up, my goals changed constantly: from aspiring to be an Olympic swimmer to dreaming of becoming an actress or marine biologist, and even an astronaut. But I have always loved writing and that never changed. I'd spend hours creating stories and binding them into books with my own hands. And now I love seeing my own kids do the very same thing.

What would you write in a letter to your teen self?

I LOVE this question!! Here goes:

Dear Younger Teen Me,

Listen up, kiddo. You may think you know everything, but trust me, you don't. So stop acting like you do, and start listening to the people around you. Especially your parents. They may seem like they don't understand you, but they have a lot of wisdom and experience that you can learn from. And speaking of listening, try to talk less. I know, I know, it's hard when you have so many great ideas and opinions. But sometimes, it's better to just sit back and listen to what other people have to say. You might learn something new, or see things from a different perspective.

Another thing, stop trying to be a people pleaser. It's exhausting, and you'll never be able to make everyone happy. Focus on being kind to yourself, and the right people will come into your life. They'll support you, encourage you, and cheer you on as you become the best version of yourself. And trust me, those people are worth their weight in gold.

Finally, life is too short to worry about what other people think of you. Go out there and chase your dreams, even if it means failing sometimes. And for the love of all that is holy, stop plucking your eyebrows. Trust me on this one.

Love always,
Your Older, Wiser Self

What book is on your nightstand currently?

My current read, Girlhood by Maggie Dent. This book is all about raising our little girls to be ‘healthy, happy, and heard’. As a mum to a six-year-old daughter, I’m loving this book as a practical guide to help my little one become more confident and resilient.

Maggie Dent has a way of writing that makes you feel like you're chatting with a good friend. So, if you're a parent to a little girl or know someone who is, I highly recommend giving this book a read.

Favorite hot beverage. Why?

Coffee is my jam! Especially an oat flat white, that's my go-to drink. As a busy parent of three little ones, my coffee is like a warm hug in a mug. There's something about the aroma and the taste that just makes my day brighter. Whether I'm on my way to work or just lounging at home, coffee is always there to keep me going.

Which of your characters would you most like to meet IRL? Why?

Fun fact! I have met two of my book characters in real from the Patroosh series and Tiny Green Unicorns! Can you believe it? Patroosh, the Pelican, was inspired by a real-life pelican that my children and I interacted with over the years. This interaction sparked the idea for my first published book, Patroosh, the Cheeky Pelican. And if that wasn't magical enough, I've also met Tiny Green Unicorns! It just goes to show that if you keep searching for magic, you might just find it. Thank you for having me here on your fun blog, and I have loved answering these questions! Happy reading!

Big hugs,
Renee x

Have you ever seen a green unicorn?

Tiny green unicorns are really, really small. They might be the tiniest unicorns of all.

They are here every day, and if you keep searching for magic, you might even find one yourself today.