Tales of Weirderland

About the Book

Award‑winning collection of six interlinked stories that begin in playful, imaginative adventures and deepen into age‑appropriate explorations of kindness, resilience, grief, ADHD, identity, and found family. Written to make kids laugh, feel seen, and feel brave—perfect for classrooms, libraries, and bedtime read‑alouds.

    Immerse yourself in the captivating realm of Weirderland, where the courageous royal siblings embark on six mesmerizing short stories of fantastical adventures. Join them as they defend their magical kingdom, growing in strength and wisdom with each exhilarating journey, unraveling life's mysteries along the way.
    In 'The Quest for Ruben,' the royal Wilding siblings must rescue a flying horse from the clutches of an evil dragon. Next, in 'The Quest for the Mermaid's Ruby,' they heroically safeguard a mermaid kingdom from imminent destruction while on a beach holiday. Then, in 'The Quest of the Fairy Fire,' they are called upon by the King and Queen to restore the magic of the forest's fairy guardians, safeguarding all humankind.
    In their most challenging quest, 'The Hopeless Quest,' they selflessly venture into the underworld to seek aid for their ailing grandfather from the Dwarves. Finally, 'The Luck of The Eyelash' and 'The Nameless Quest' lead them on individual journeys of self-discovery, to learn who they truly are and what the future might hold. Experience the magic and adventure as the royal heirs navigate perilous challenges, forging their destinies in a world brimming with wonder and excitement.

Where to Buy

Tales of Weirderland: The Collected Volumes

Steenblik, Kyle

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This collection of six short stories not only transports young readers to the magical realm of Weirderland but also reflects a journey inspired by my two children.

In Tales of Weirderland, readers follow the heroic journeys of siblings who confront formidable challenges and discover their true selves. The narratives blend imaginative storytelling with valuable life lessons. The book’s themes of self-discovery and courage resonate deeply, providing young readers with both excitement and meaningful reflections. I have aimed to create a world that is not only entertaining but also inspiring, inviting children to explore the beauty of imagination while grappling with real-life emotions and experiences.

The stories, which make up the first volume of this book, originated as improvised bedtime stories based on my children’s imaginative requests. In the second volume, I drew inspiration from my children's challenges and experiences. To include stories with themes of grief and loss, ADHD, and gender identity, allowing for a deeper reflection on their growth and struggles. The result is a blend of whimsical adventures and heartfelt insights, offering young readers both excitement and relatable lessons.

My book offers a unique progression in reading level and thematic depth. The stories evolve from whimsical tales into more mature reflections that address important themes, making them particularly relevant for today's young readers. The collection aims to impart meaningful lessons, such as the message of kindness and the importance of facing adversity with compassion. It also emphasizes the value of asking for help and highlights the strength and resilience of children. Additionally, it encourages embracing silliness and humor to find joy in everyday life.

Select Praise

“ The playful and witty dialogue is particularly impressive. It enhances character development and offers levity during tense moments. Additionally, it distinguishes characters and their relationships, enriching their interactions. Kyle Steenblik employs vivid imagery to bring scenes to life, enabling young readers to visualize the enchanting world and its fantastical elements... Tales of Weirderland is a refreshing take on the genre that respects its roots in classic fairytales while delivering new and exciting adventures for contemporary readers. Steenblik's creativity and skill in crafting a series of individually satisfying tales, cohesively bound by shared themes and characters, shine through in his writing” — Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

“ Tales of Weirderland is the perfect book for young fantasy adventure fans. Whimsical and full of wonder and magic, these stories not only entertain but also offer a few valuable life lessons along the way.” — Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

“ Tales of Weirderland will instantly win the applause of young readers. It invites readers on a journey filled with courage, curiosity, creativity, and self-discovery. Kyle Steenblik does a fantastic job of moving his lively and inventive narratives in volume one to more profound and thoughtful storylines in volume two. His stories encompass themes that children and young adults will be able to relate to. These stories demonstrate the author's aptitude for crafting imaginative scenes and whimsical characters while creating an expansive world overflowing with magic, fairies, mermaids, and numerous mythical elements. Each stunning story will encourage readers to develop and trust their inner strength and embrace their unique qualities. The humor is done well in each story, especially through Iris and Cael's witty interactions. This book is perfect for readers looking for adventure-packed tales with heartfelt themes that will leave an impression.” — Alija Turkovic for Readers' Favorite

“What surprised me most was the book's emotional depth. Though it starts as a fun, lighthearted read, the second trilogy carries a weightier message. Steenblik wrote these stories as a reflection of his children's growth, and it shows... This collection is a must-read for families, fantasy lovers, and anyone who enjoys a story that doesn't take itself too seriously while still delivering heartfelt moments. If you grew up loving The Princess Bride or The Phantom Tollbooth, Tales of Weirderland will feel like coming home” — Literary Titan