La trayectoria de W. Nikola-Lisa en la escritura para jóvenes lectores se inspiró en sus experiencias como maestro de primaria. Más allá de sus esfuerzos como autor, es un hábil narrador y músico que comparte activamente sus conocimientos de escritura con estudiantes de todo el país. Su obra a menudo profundiza en temas que resuenan profundamente con los niños, caracterizada por una cualidad rítmica y musical que refleja su multifacético trasfondo artístico. Los lectores conectan con su voz auténtica y su talento para crear narrativas atractivas para una audiencia joven.
Set in ancient Japan, this literary folktale follows a young boy's journey toward self-discovery and enlightenment. Through a series of brief and repetitive episodes, the story captures the essence of the "Return of the Hero" format, reflecting themes of personal growth and realization. The narrative invites upper elementary and middle school readers to explore the stages of life and the quest for one's true self, all while engaging with the rich cultural backdrop of Japanese mythology.
Engaging in a witty dialogue, W. Nikola-Lisa explores astrology with his associates, Castor and Pollux, offering a playful yet insightful examination of this ancient practice. Rather than presenting a manual or a definitive stance on astrology, the author delves into diverse topics such as natal charts, house division systems, and elemental influences. As a double Gemini, he reflects on his personal journey to understand astrology and its mysteries, particularly in relation to his own writing aspirations and the enigmatic advice he received about his career.
Focusing on the theme of verbal abuse and bullying, this book serves as a valuable resource for upper elementary and middle school discussions. It introduces the concept of "x words," representing hurtful language used in conflicts, paralleling the mathematical idea of an unknown quantity. With a blend of humor and thoughtfulness, W. Nikola-Lisa encourages readers to reflect on their communication and appreciate the beauty of language, fostering a deeper understanding of the impact of words on relationships.
Exploring the balance between prayer and action, this work emphasizes their roles as forms of civil disobedience. It argues that both are essential yet distinct, with prayer serving as a slow but powerful force for moral grounding, while action is necessary for immediate response. The author reflects on the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., highlighting the importance of aligning actions with contemplation to avoid destructive paths. The visual poems serve as commentaries urging readers to embrace both reflection and proactive engagement in the pursuit of justice.