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Cows with Bangs: A Stylish Tale of Acceptance follows an artistic cow with a passion for hairstyling who is mocked by her peers, and eventually earns their respect when the famous Highland Queen comes to see her for a makeover. What was the inspiration for your story?
The inspiration for this story surfaced during a public event I attended at a local farm. This farm, Highland Hills Farm in Emmetsburg, Iowa, raises miniature Highland cows to sell as pets. I thought to myself, Oh look, cows with bangs. I knew, in that moment, I had to create a children’s book with that title. I rarely come up with a title first, but in this case, it was too cute not to. My next thoughts were bangs, hair, styles, and cosmetology. I filed the idea away for several months until I was ready to work on the story during Christmas break 2024.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
My stories contain a lesson or two to help young children become better humans. As a teacher, I am with children each day and observe their struggles. Kids are constantly learning how to master the skills they need to navigate life. In doing so, they frequently suffer from hurt feelings. Sometimes kids are misunderstood or mocked by their peers for just being themselves. This was the core situation I decided to present in the character of Claire.
Another concept I hope adults pick up on is how important it is to support kids. Taking the time and giving 100% of your attention, even if only for a minute or two, and speaking kind words can deeply affect a child. This concept was shown through the character of the queen.
What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?
I enjoyed the last scene when Claire becomes the herd’s cow-moo-tologist. That play on words always makes people laugh or smile.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently finishing up a chapter book for ages 8-12. That is Book Three in my series The Crustacean Chronicles. It completes the series, which follows Charlie’s Crabby Day and The Sand Sculpture Competition.
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Claire is an artist with a talent for styling hair, but her passions are not welcomed and her peers shun her. That is until the famous Highland Queen comes to her rescue.
The Queen praises Claire’s skills and requests a hair appointment, causing the others to reconsider their judgment and line up for their own fabulous makeovers.
This charming tale of embracing individuality and gaining acceptance will remind us of the value of being supportive and kind.
Cows With Bangs
Claire may be a cow, but her true passion lies in hairstyling, a dream that sets her apart in Cows with Bangs: A Stylish Tale of Acceptance by Joan Enockson. While her peers mock her unique interest, Claire presses on, masking her hurt behind a brave exterior. Their teasing stings, driving her to seek solace in private tears.
Everything changes when a glamorous, world-renowned Highland cow arrives in town. She’s not just any visitor; she’s a star of stage and screen. Ignoring the herd of autograph-seeking bulls, she insists on one thing first: getting her hair styled by Claire. And the transformation? Stunning. Suddenly, the same cows who once sneered are lining up, eager for Claire’s magic touch. From outcast to icon, Claire’s journey is both heartwarming and triumphant.
There’s so much to love about this delightful story. First and foremost, the rhythmic, rhyming text adds a musicality that makes reading aloud a joy. Children and adults alike will fall into an effortless cadence, amplifying the charm and liveliness of each page.
Beneath the whimsy lies a powerful message: being different is not a flaw; it’s a strength. Claire’s struggle will resonate deeply with young readers who may have felt out of place for embracing something they love. She does nothing to harm others yet becomes the target of ridicule, a scenario all too familiar. Her response is dignified, persistent, and graceful offering a meaningful lesson in resilience and self-worth.
Equally impressive are the illustrations, also created by Joan Enockson. Every page bursts with color and expression, visually enhancing the narrative with whimsical charm. The artwork not only complements the text, it brings it to life, inviting the reader to linger, explore, and connect with each scene.
Enockson weaves her background in education, music, and storytelling into a seamless tapestry that captivates children while offering thoughtful, age-appropriate themes. Her dedication to teaching shines through, as she subtly introduces ideas of friendship, problem-solving, and self-acceptance.
Cows with Bangs is more than just a stylish story, it’s a celebration of individuality, a tribute to kindness, and a joyful reminder that sometimes, standing out is the best thing you can do. With engaging characters, a vibrant plot, and radiant illustrations, this book is a must-have for every young reader’s shelf.
Pages: 28 | ISBN : 1958023531
LITERARY TITAN 