Al’s Journey Awareness Tour is presented in partnership* with Marin and The Children’s Book Review.
Step into a world of magic, mystery, and meaning as we set out on the virtual tour for Marin’s unforgettable new book, Al’s Journey!
On the night of his grandfather’s 100th birthday, Al begins a transformation journey unlike any other. Guided by mystical fireflies, he climbs a mountain alone to reach the sacred hut where he can ask life’s deepest questions. Along the way, he faces trials of courage and heart, and by dawn, he has grown up overnight—becoming the healer his tribe has been waiting for.
Marin Darmonkow is an exceptional author who has been making waves in the literary world with his unforgettable writing skills. His work is a testament to his creativity, passion, and dedication to storytelling.
Midwest Book Review
With each book he writes, his stories are captivating, thought-provoking, and profoundly moving. From his gripping plotlines to his vivid descriptions of characters and settings, Marin’s work is a true delight to read, and any library or home would be fortunate to have his books.
Everyone who enters the virtual book tour giveaway below will receive links to download two of Marin’s creations: a free e-book and a free audiobook! Plus, three lucky winners will take home extra prizes. One grand prize winner will receive $200 via PayPal along with the audio version of Al’s Journey. Another winner will receive $50 via PayPal and the audiobook, and a third winner will receive $20 via PayPal and the audiobook. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy Marin’s inspiring story and win big—enter below!
Al’s Journey
Virtual Tour Dates
| Monday, September 1, 2025 The Children’s Book Review Tour Kick-Off for Al’s Journey |
| Thursday, September 4, 2025 Country Mamas With Kids Book Review or Guest Post about Al’s Journey |
| Friday, September 5, 2025 The Starlit Path Book Review of Al’s Journey |
| Monday, September 8, 2025 @nissa_the.bookworm Book Review of Al’s Journey |
| Tuesday, September 9, 2025 Deliciously Savvy Book Review of Al’s Journey |
| Thursday, September 11, 2025 Q&As with Deborah Kalb Author Interview with Marin |
| Tuesday, September 16, 2025 icefairy’s Treasure Chest Book Review of Al’s Journey |
| Wednesday, September 17, 2025 Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog Book Review of Al’s Journey |
| Thursday, September 18, 2025 Crafty Moms Share Book Review of Al’s Journey |
Al’s Journey Book Giveaway
Al’s Journey: Book GiveawayAbout the Book
Al’s Journey
Written and Illustrated by Marin
Ages: 5-9 | 32 Pages
Publisher: Fontreal (2025) | ISBN: 978-1-989661-45-1 (Hardcover), 978-1-989661-46-8 (Paperback), 978-1-989661-47-5 (eBook), 978-1-989661-48-2 (Audiobook)
Publisher’s Book Summary: The Night Everything Changed: A Magical Story of Growing Up Fast and Learning Who You Are
What if you woke up tomorrow… a different person?
In Al’s Journey, young readers are invited into the magical story of a boy who grows up overnight—and must learn what it means to grow truly. With dreamlike illustrations and a message that resonates with kids and adults alike, this gentle parable offers a meaningful bedtime read and a touching reminder of the changes we all go through.
Perfect for ages 5 to 9, this book explores:
- The mystery and beauty of growing up
- Emotional self-awareness for young readers
- Gentle lessons in identity, transformation, and empathy
Give your child a story they’ll never forget—with a lesson that will stay with them forever.
Can a child grow up overnight?
Al’s Journey is a magical tale about an orphan boy and his wise grandfather, the shaman of a gold-obsessed tribe that disregarded eating and sleeping while searching for the yellow metal. On his 100th birthday, the shaman announces to Al that it is time for him to begin his own life journey. The boy must climb the mountain alone to reach the roofless sacred hut of the old shaman, where he can ask God crucial questions. As Al makes his way up the mountain peak guided by mystical fireflies, he faces challenges that test his courage and strength. When he finally reaches the summit, Al asks the creator profound questions about the true meaning of life. The valuable experience of the voyage and the response of the supreme being help Al grow mentally, emotionally, and physically overnight and become the healer his tribe needs.
Buy the Book
About the Author/Illustrator
His name is Marin* and he marinates his picture books in a creative concoction brewed on the very beach of the Atlantic East Coast. Marin writes the stories, illustrates the pages, designs the covers, arranges the layout of the elements, and publishes the books. Sometimes he creates new fonts for his titles to make them complete pieces of art. His food-for-thought creations contain only natural ingredients. They are nutrient-dense and perfect for a balanced brain diet.
WARNING: Marin’s books tend to inspire young readers!
*Recipient of the Literary Titan Book Award, Wishing Shelf Book Award, and Creative Child Magazine 2025 Picture Book of the Year; 2024 American Book Fest finalist
For more information, please visit fontreal.com.
Thanks for following along with us on Marin’s Al’s Journey awareness tour!
402 Comments
Do you write about your hometown?
Will I have any regrets at the end of my life?
Great story for this age group.
Chicken or the egg. You know the question.
Why do some people have major health problems and others don’t?
I’d ask why there is so much inequality in the world
Have you ever had writer’s block?
Would love to win because the book sounds really interesting.
Will time travel ever be possible?
Have you read A Course in Miracles?
I would love to win this giveaway because I think my granddaughters would really enjoy this book!
I would ask for wisdom in all areas of my life.
Would you want your book turned into a movie?
would love to win, in time for Christmas.
I like the illustrations.
Congratulations on your new release
Awareness is important.
I’d love to win because my family would love this book.
I would ask if my siblings who currently have serious health issues will be healed.
What happens when you find out all the answers?
I would love to win so I can buy my son a keyboard he wants and would enjoy the book for myself.
The book will make a great gift!
Why is Oktoberfest more popular in September?
Can you tell me why is Oktoberfest more popular in September?
I would ask if I will be in good health in my final years.
This looks fantastic. Thanks for sharing.
How do I know you have the answers?
I’d ask if you’re really united with your loved ones after death
Do you have a writing snack?
Would love to win and share this book with my family.
Would love to win the money for my son and the book for myself.
What is the purpose of my life?
I would ask if I will be in good health in my final years on this earth.
I definitely want to read this. Thanks for sharing.
Is Grease the word, or is Bird the word?
Oh wise one, please tell me, ss Grease the word, or is Bird the word?
Sounds like a fabulous book.
Why do some people abuse people & animals
What swag would you like to give readers?
Awesome story!
I would ask what’s there best words of wisdom.
Is it wise to know everything?
I would ask why there is so much hate in this world?
I would ask why some people are in my life for a season..
How did I get here?
Mr Mountain man, How did I get here?
Does information always equal knowledge?
Sounds interesting.
Is there really a rainbow bridge
Great book trailer!
What is your next project or book?
I would ask if the thing I most want on my wish list will come true.
I’d love to win to enjoy this book and purchase more books for my family.
Would love to win and get my son the keyboard he wants and I would love the books!
Why does money create such greed?
Will there be transportation available to get me back down from this mountain?
How do you unite people today?
My fabulous.
I’d ask why some people can act so fake
I would ask why there is so much hate and violence in the world.
Thank You, Fingers Crossed.
Awesome book for young readers!
How do you not get altitude sickness?