Blog Archives
Educating and Encouraging
Not Everyone Walks the Stage follows a young girl who is about to start kindergarten, and while she is excited, she is also nervous about fitting in because she is different. What was the inspiration for your story?
Sierra: The inspiration came from a joke that Nick made about myself working on my university’s commencement planning committee. He said something along the lines of “She helps people walk the stage but she won’t ‘walk’ the stage herself” and a friend of Nick’s thought that it would be a wonderful book idea. He and I both agreed and now here we are!
Nick: Sierra was the Lead Commencement Assistant (student worker) at our university, the Milwaukee School of Engineering, and she never let her disability or her being in a wheelchair stop her from anything We worked together to make this wonderful story about a girl that goes to school for the first time and is concerned because she hears at school that at the end of the year ‘not everyone walks the stage” and graduates. The readers do not know exactly why she is worried, and at the end of the book we discover that she is in a wheelchair and has been taking the phrase literally rather than as an idiom meaning to graduate. Sierra’s own drive as a person is reflected by the character of Sophia who makes sure she does well in school so that she can cross the stage at graduation like everyone else!
The art in this book is fantastic, representing diversity so that all children can find someone with whom to relate. What was the art collaboration process like with the illustrator Alisa Tverdokhleb?
Sierra: It was amazing! I have never been good at art myself and it was so cool to learn more about the creative process and watch her bring the ideas and words to life while adding her own unique voice. She did a fantastic job and I had a blast getting to know her more as well. She’s an absolute sweetheart.
Nick: Alisa Tverdokhleb is the behind-the-scenes hero of this project. She is a master visual storyteller who listened to what the writers needed and added her own creativity. Her unforgettable vibrant and beautiful artwork gave an even more resounding voice to Sierra’s story.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Sierra: I would say the most important part for me was educating people on life in a wheelchair while showing encouraging others to go out and live their life to the fullest. I think it’s easy for anyone of any age to get caught up in the ableist belief that your life is “over” after becoming wheelchair bound for any reason and that simply isn’t the case. However, it is still a commonly held belief that is hard to shake for multiple reasons and it’s why the Q and A portion of this book is the most important educational aspect to include.
Nick: Sierra and I agreed that this book could be more than just a wonderful book for kids, but an opportunity to educate people of all ages about what it is like to be in a wheelchair, or how one can support wheelchair bound people. We agreed that helping and educating others is what we wanted to do. On our website there’s even free lesson plans for how teachers and parents can use the book to teach concepts in school. We also wanted every to just smile and realize that no matter how different we are we are all the same.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Sierra: I’m gonna leave this one to you to answer Nick, LOL.
Nick: I am hoping that this question means that people want more of Sophia’s story, or our style of book. We have talked about continuing Sophia’s adventures, but want to find the right story to tell. I think we also want the whole team back together for this if we can.
If you think we should do a sequel, please leave a comment here or on our social media pages and let us know. We love hearing from readers more than anything!
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website
Sophia is excited about kindergarten and just wants to fit in. She is worried that at graduation at the end of the year she won’t walk the stage like everyone else. Join her as she learns about — how things work at school, how to make friends, how sometimes we all struggle, how learning is fun, and how she is exactly like her friends!
Sophia’s has a mobility impairment that makes her think that she might not succeed in school. Her literal misunderstanding of “being able to walk the stage” at the end of the year worries her. We follow her journey through her first year in school, where we discover that her experiences are identical to all other students. Sophia’s wheelchair is hidden in the book until the very end to emphasize her common experiences with other students. This wonderful book is perfect for all students to learn important broad lessons about how we are all the same, yet all different at the same time.
The book includes an interview with author Sierra Andrews who herself is in a wheelchair due to a car accident at 18-years old. She gives information about being wheelchair-bound to parents, educators, and students. She answers questions people want to ask but are often afraid to do so. It also includes special sections called Can You Find, Other Ways to Use This Book, Fun Things to Do, and Fun Facts that give readers additional activities that they can do to learn and enjoy themselves. An interview with illustrator Alisa Tverdokhleb gives advice to those who want to be artists.
“A story so full of delightful surprises from the unexpected ending to the detailed attention given to the whole-child development. Not Everyone Walks the Stage is a book so inclusive and informative that no classroom, library, school, or home should be without a copy. Not Everyone Walks the Stage shares an essential story that highlights valuable lessons for both kids and adults on how to acknowledge and respect our differences. This is a graduation ceremony you really won’t want to miss. Zepo Publishing takes the good that already exists in the world and amplifies it. A common thread in its books is its message of inclusion and acceptance of our individual differences that connect us in unique ways to one another.” – Dr. Janet Canino Ph.D., LMFT
The Power of Gratitude: Unlocking Hidden Treasures
In the heartwarming children’s book, The Power of Gratitude: Unlocking Hidden Treasures, Orbit visits a sleepover camp and discusses the meaning of gratitude with the children. As the conversation unfolds, Orbit encourages the children to share their thoughts on what gratitude means to them.
Author Ruth Maille skillfully immerses readers in Orbit’s world, instilling a lesson about gratitude even when life takes unexpected turns. Maille creatively incorporates the letters of the alphabet, making it an ideal choice for children who are starting to learn the alphabet. Each letter becomes a doorway to explore what brings joy and appreciation into our lives. The vivid illustrations breathe life into the story, creating an instantly relatable experience for young minds and inspiring their curiosity.
Orbit’s clever analogy is that practicing gratitude is similar to strengthening one’s muscles through exercise. The more you exercise gratitude, the stronger it becomes a lesson that resonates with children and adults alike. The author’s storytelling is both engaging and educational, making this picture book a perfect choice for young readers who are not only entertained but also inspired to explore the concept of gratitude.
It’s heartwarming to learn that Orbit wears band-aids on his head, a touching reminder that his adventures are dedicated to healing our world. The author’s imaginative touch conveys to kids that ‘X’ isn’t merely a letter; it symbolizes affectionate kisses, and ‘O’ embodies the warmth of comforting hugs.
The Power of Gratitude: Unlocking Hidden Treasures is a magical journey that teaches, entertains, and leaves an everlasting impression. Dive into this enchanting world and unlock the hidden treasures of gratitude with Orbit.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B09L8LGK39
Children Teaching Children
The Power of Kindness: Through the Eyes of Children follows a kindergarten class that teaches kindness and how to show it to others. What was the inspiration for this children’s story?
My preschool children and I love exploring different topics during our day. One day, during snack time, I asked them what kindness meant. That conversation evolved into where they see kindness in their world and how they can make a difference. Their answers were delightfully surprising. I could see each child’s answer inspiring the other children in the class. Children teaching children, helping one another to create a better world. I had to share that message.
What was the inspiration for the character of Orbit, who is featured in your The Power of series?
While working on the cover of my first book, The Power of Positivity: The ABCs of a Pandemic, we tried to find the perfect picture to represent the book. This story is an alphabet book. While writing the page for “O is for Optimistic,” the image of Orbit came to life. The two bandaids on his head express our optimism that our world is healing to children. Orbit later became the main character with the mission to help spread “positivity, love, and kindness worldwide.”
What book did you read or have read to you as a child that has left a lasting impression on you and why?
I loved The Curious George Series. The books were entertaining and funny. George and his friends were always on silly, mischievous adventures, which always made me laugh. I have always been curious, so a part of me related to George.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from The Power of Kindness?
I want more children to realize how powerful being kind can be. Research with children has determined that showing kindness creates positive changes in the brain and that selfless acts provide physical and emotional benefits to help create well-rounded children. Kindness is contagious in a good way. Over time, being kind becomes second nature, and our brains seek out acts of kindness. It can be anyone’s superpower.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website
The Power of Kindness Through the Eyes of Children shows the rippling effect of how being empathic and kind can generate kindness to others. It demonstrates how each of us can help impact the world around us with simple acts every day.
This book helps children understand they have the power to shape their daily interactions with others, as well as, recognize when someone needs their support, generosity, and kindness.
The Power of Kindness helps children to understand that a kind word or act can change someone’s day when delivered at the right moment.
In The Power of Kindness, Orbit and the children learn…“that no matter how big or small my action is, I can make a difference in the world.” Christopher age 8
“What a great idea to recycle items to those in need.” Jaxon age 6
“No act of kindness is wasted; just look at the little boy saving a worm.” Brandon age 6
Grab your copy of The Power of Kindness Through the Eyes of Children and get access to the Kindness Matters song and other goodies from the Author’s site.
The Power of Kindness: Through the Eyes of Children
Prepare to be enchanted by The Power of Kindness: Through the Eyes of Children by Ruth Maille, where Orbit’s mission to spread love and compassion captivates readers from start to finish. Orbit’s journey commences in a kindergarten classroom, setting the stage for an inspiring exploration of what it truly means to be kind.
As you flip through the pages of this heartwarming book, you’ll find yourself drawn into Orbit’s world through stunning illustrations that breathe life into every moment. It’s not just a story; it’s a delightful adventure where readers of all ages learn new ways to embrace kindness and empathy. Orbit’s lessons on staying calm and thoughtful during challenging decisions are invaluable pearls of wisdom that every child can carry with them through life.
One of the most touching aspects of The Power of Kindness is its conclusion, where the author thoughtfully includes quotes from children across the nation, offering diverse perspectives on what kindness means to them. These quotes serve as powerful reminders that kindness knows no boundaries and can touch the lives of children everywhere.
This book educates, inspires, and empowers young readers. The Power of Kindness: Through the Eyes of Children is a literary gem that leaves an indelible mark, reminding us all of the incredible impact a simple act of kindness can have. Whether you’re a child or an adult, this book is a treasure trove of lessons and inspiration that will warm your heart and leave you believing in the power of kindness.
Pages: 19 | ASIN : B09DWQMD83
Adventures on the Can Do Trail
Adventures on the Can Do Trail is a heartwarming and inspiring book by author Jothy Rosenberg. The story follows Alex, a young boy who fulfills his dream of hiking the Can Do Trail, where he encounters animals with disabilities that prevent them from participating in activities with their friends. With his determination, Alex finds ways to include these animals and help them enjoy life to the fullest despite their limitations.
Rosenberg’s story is a testament to the power of determination and inclusion, delivering an empowering message to young readers that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. The story’s unique twist ending is unexpected and adds an extra layer of depth to the already powerful message.
One of the most notable aspects of this book is the character of Alex, who is kind, thoughtful, and empowering. He teaches young readers the importance of being inclusive of everyone, regardless of their abilities. The illustrations are also detailed and colorful, transporting the reader into Alex’s world and enhancing the overall reading experience.
In addition to the story itself, the author includes a powerful message at the beginning of the book to encourage readers to approach challenges with a “can-do” attitude. This message is reinforced throughout the story, giving young readers the confidence to believe in themselves and their abilities. The inclusion of a fun scavenger hunt at the end of the book is an added bonus, encouraging young readers to explore and engage with the story on a deeper level.
Adventures on the Can Do Trail is an inspiring and empowering book that instills confidence, compassion, and a “can-do” attitude in young readers. It is a highly recommended read for parents, teachers, and anyone looking to teach young readers the importance of having self-confidence and compassion toward others.
Pages: 41 | ASIN : B0BHTX4YGX
LITERARY TITAN 