Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the questions we hear most often about this blog, the book, buying it and using it in the classroom. If yours is not here, send it to us.
About the blog
Who is this blog for?
It is written for adults: parents, grandparents, teachers, librarians and homeschoolers who want ideas for reading, bedtime and play with children. It is not aimed at children themselves.
Who writes the articles?
Articles are written by children’s author S.W. Fowler, the pen name of Samantha Wiley Fowler. Read how posts are researched and reviewed in our Editorial Policy.
Is the blog free to read?
Yes. The blog is free and has no sign-up. It is supported by advertising, which is always labelled “Advertisement”. See the Disclaimer for details.
How can I suggest a topic or report a mistake?
Use the contact page. We read every message and fix confirmed errors promptly.
About the book
What is The Closet Jungle about?
It is a children’s adventure about brothers Reid and Josh, who find a world of dinosaurs behind their bedroom closet door. They rescue a baby Maiasaura and look after Luna, a glowing baby Parasaurolophus, and learn about courage, teamwork and kindness. Read more on the book hub.
What ages is the book for?
It is written for families to share, from toddlers who are being read to up to about age 12. The main website suggests ages 6 to 10 as the best fit for independent chapter-book reading.
What themes does it explore?
Curiosity, courage, imagination, teamwork, sibling bonds, empathy and responsibility.
Do you need to read other books first?
Each story is written so that new readers can jump straight in, though readers who start with the first book will enjoy seeing how the brothers first found the hidden world. The main website lists the current titles on the book page.
Buying
Where can I buy The Closet Jungle?
The book is published by Storytime Publishers and sold on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Merchandise is sold on the official website.
Does the blog sell anything?
No. The blog informs and the main website sells. Links to the book or to retailers are marked as promotion or sponsored links.
Who can I contact about an order?
Orders and shipping questions are handled through the main website, or by the retailer you bought from.
Classroom and homeschool use
Can I use the book and activities in my classroom?
Yes. Our Teacher and Classroom Guide has discussion questions, vocabulary and activities you can use freely with your own students.
Are there free printables?
We are building a small collection, which will appear on the Free Activities page. Downloads will never require a child’s personal information.
Can the author visit a school or library?
Please contact us to ask.
Reading and activities
How much should my child read each day?
For most children a total of 15 to 30 minutes a day, counting both reading aloud together and independent reading, is a realistic goal. See our full answer in how long should a 7-year-old read each day.
My child won’t sit still for a story. What can I do?
Shorten the session, let your child draw or hold a small toy while you read, and read at a calmer time of day. Our article on building a bedtime reading habit has more ideas.
Are the activities safe for young children?
Every activity is meant to be set up and supervised by an adult. Choose materials that suit your child’s age, and keep small parts away from toddlers. Read the safety note in our Disclaimer.
Contact and privacy
How can I contact the author?
Use the contact form or email info@swfowler.com. You can also find @scturtle16 on Instagram and Facebook.
How is my data used?
Only to reply to you and to run the site. Read our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.
Is this site safe for children to use?
The blog is written for adults and does not ask anyone for personal information beyond the contact form. We recommend that children use the internet with a parent or guardian.
