Blog Archives
Petunia the Perfectionist
In Petunia the Perfectionist, young Petunia is determined to achieve perfection in everything she does, earning her the nickname “Petunia the Perfectionist” from her classmates. Concerned, her mother gently explains the value of making mistakes, emphasizing that errors are essential for learning and brain development. The central question of the story is whether Petunia will learn to relax and enjoy life without the constant pressure of perfectionism.
From the outset, I found Petunia’s story both engaging and relatable. Her struggle with perfectionism is a burden no one, regardless of age, should have to bear. Petunia’s self-imposed pressure causes her to miss out on many enjoyable experiences. The book offers a crucial lesson for both children and adults: it’s okay not to be perfect. Embracing our mistakes helps us grow and improve.
Marissa Bader’s story also highlights the importance of self-compassion. While Petunia shows great compassion towards others, she struggles to extend the same kindness to herself. This narrative teaches readers that self-compassion is just as vital as the compassion we offer others, a lesson Petunia must learn to truly grow. Ellie Beykzadeh’s illustrations are a delightful complement to the story. Her colorful and charming artwork captures the essence of childhood wonder and curiosity, enhancing the narrative and making Petunia’s journey visually engaging. Beykzadeh’s ability to inspire exploration through her art is evident and adds an extra layer of enjoyment for readers.
Petunia the Perfectionist is a heartwarming and educational read, perfectly suited for children aged 5-8. As an adult, I also found value in the story’s message, reminding me of the importance of self-compassion. Marissa Bader has crafted a beautifully insightful tale, and I commend her for this wonderful contribution.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0D343YCQ4
Positive Parenting Made Simple
Positive Parenting Made Simple: The Revolutionary Guide to Mindful Parenting Techniques That Nurture Happiness, Success, and Stronger Bonds With Science-Backed Steps to Raising Holistic Kids serves as an essential digest for parents and guardians, offering a comprehensive understanding of parenting dynamics. Authors Raffael Lyon and S.K. Braga effectively demystify the parenting process, presenting a myriad of parenting styles, challenges, and potential outcomes. The book begins on a note of positivity, setting the tone for a journey of simple yet insightful strategies. The authors adeptly employ common scenarios to provide readers with relatable context, elevating the discussion beyond theory.
The authors contrast traditional and modern parenting methodologies, delineating their impact on children and highlighting their distinct features. The information provided in this book is similar to attending a comprehensive parenting seminar. Central to the book is the exploration of building robust bonds, cultivating mindfulness, facilitating recovery from setbacks, and nurturing empathy. It emphasizes the parent’s role as a pivotal influence, akin to how the moon shapes the Earth, in molding their child’s world. One of the book’s strengths lies in its acknowledgment of the imperfections inherent in parenting. It provides a pragmatic, step-by-step guide, acting as a manual for navigating the complex parenting landscape. The authors address potential flaws in parenting styles with tact and understanding, avoiding condescension and employing a friendly, supportive approach. While recognizing the unique nature of each parent-child relationship, Lyon and Braga encourage adaptable parenting strategies that resonate with individual family dynamics. The book is peppered with encouraging words for those who find parenting daunting, reaffirming that while the journey may be challenging, resources like this guide are available to aid in employing effective parenting techniques.
Positive Parenting Made Simple is a supportive companion for any parent on their journey, offering wisdom, understanding, and encouragement to foster a healthier, happier family dynamic.
Pages: 194 | ASIN : B0CM56FCMR
Storytelling Heals, Teaches, and Inspires
This anthology of children’s stories teaches children about emotional intelligence, for example, courage, empathy, and understanding. What was the idea, or spark, that first set off the need to write The Magic in Metaphor?
The Magic in Metaphor was sparked by the profound challenges of the pandemic, which illuminated the emotional toll on both adults and children. As a hypnotherapist, I’ve seen the transformative power of metaphorical storytelling in healing and growth. The rising concern among my clients about their children’s well-being—echoed by reports on increasing mental health emergencies among youth—inspired me to take action. This book is crafted to arm families with the tools needed to guide children through the emotional challenges of these trying times.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
It was vital to integrate aspects of emotional learning that aren’t always addressed in traditional education. I wanted to ensure each story would foster emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and self-reflection, empowering children to navigate life’s challenges with resilience, empathy, and understanding.
What is your background and experience in writing, and how did it help you write The Magic in Metaphor?
With a background in mental health and hypnotherapy, I focused on my ability to communicate complex concepts in a simple way. My experience guiding others through personal journeys informed the narrative structure of the book and allowed me to create stories that children and adults alike can relate to.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your book?
I hope readers recognize the profound power of storytelling to not only entertain but also to heal, teach, and inspire. If each reader, young or old, comes away with a deeper empathy for themselves and others, and the courage to face their own stories, “The Magic in Metaphor” will have fulfilled its purpose.
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
From Archie, the lovable puppy overcoming his first-day anxiety at Doggie Daycare, to Cally, the caterpillar bracing for her transformative journey into a butterfly, each narrative serves as a metaphor for real-life experiences, helping children navigate their own emotional landscapes.
Beyond the compelling narratives, this book provides a unique blend of therapeutic value, offering detailed insight into each story, suggested activities for children, and highlighted activities for parents, teachers, and counselors to engage with children.
The Magic In Metaphor is more than a collection of tales; it’s a comprehensive guide that equips adults with the tools to foster emotional intelligence, personal growth, and emotional expression in children.
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
Teaching Empathy
The Power of Empathy: Be the Friend You’ve Always Wanted takes young readers on an adventure to the park, where they learn what empathy is and how to be a good friend to others. Why was this an important topic to write a children’s book on?
I see children struggling with their feelings in my role as a preschool teacher and daycare provider. It is common for children to understand feelings like being happy, sad, and scared. The more complex ones are difficult for them to recognize, like being excited, anxious, proud, and embarrassed.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
I wanted to write a story that simplified complicated emotions by providing tools that helped children identify their feelings. Because empathy is a learned trait rather than something innate, it is essential for children to learn how to connect emotions and empathy. For that to happen, they must be able to identify and recognize their own emotions in other people. Helping young children develop a strong sense of empathy creates within them a sense of security and stronger relationships with both children and adults. It encourages tolerance and acceptance of others as well as themselves. It gives them the tools to be more cooperative with others and the courage to intervene when they see others being bullied. These are just a few of the benefits of equipping children with the skill of empathy.
What is one thing people point out after reading your book that surprises you?
One of the main things I hear is that the topics of my books are much needed in today’s world. My topics and storylines are all inspired by the children with whom I’ve worked for over thirty years. I try to capture what I see them struggle with every day. All the examples come from the children. I share each story as I’m writing it with my daycare children. I’ve captured the topic’s essence when the children can relate and see themselves. This helps get the message across in a loving and non-threatening way. My main character Orbit shares his thoughts on the topic, but more importantly, he listens to the children.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
I am focusing on marketing at this point. My goal is to write one or two more books in 2024. I’m leaning toward the topics of patience or persistence. However, I am always open to suggestions.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Don’t miss spending time with Orbit and his friends on their fourth adventure of The Power of… children’s picture book series.
This beautifully illustrated story gently teaches young children how to recognize their emotions – and the emotions of others. Children learn what it means to practice empathy by witnessing real-life examples that are easy for them to understand.
Written with easily understandable language, and perfect for adults to read aloud, this book enables children to see themselves in the examples that Orbit shares with his friends.
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
The Power of Empathy Be the Friend You’ve Always Wanted
The Power of Empathy: Be the Friend You’ve Always Wanted by the talented Ruth Maille is an illustrative book that takes young readers on an adventure in the park, guided by the endearing character Orbit, as they explore the profound concept of empathy. Within the pages of this captivating book, Orbit, and his young companions delve into the origins, effects, and impacts of empathy on life. They also discover its numerous benefits for children, learning how to identify and regulate their own emotions and those of others. Orbit shares a treasure trove of real-life examples that vividly illustrate the pivotal role empathy plays in children’s lives.
The Power of Empathy is more than just a children’s book; it’s a valuable lesson in itself. The interactive illustrations immediately seize the reader’s attention from the first page and continue to captivate throughout the journey. Through the fictional character Orbit, children are gently introduced to the concept of empathy as they join him in the park for engaging storytelling sessions. While the storytelling is delightfully simple, the underlying theme is well-crafted and immensely beneficial for young minds, imparting a valuable lesson they’ll carry with them. Ruth Maille’s brisk writing style ensures a quick and enjoyable read. Orbit’s narration flows seamlessly as he shares his stories with children at the park. Maille employs straightforward language, ensuring the book is easily comprehensible for its target audience. The real-life examples shared by Orbit encompass a wide array of scenarios, providing children with a diverse perspective on empathy’s importance. As Orbit delves deeper into the subject, the author skillfully imparts the benefits of recognizing emotions. Orbit’s character is thoughtfully explored in this book, enhancing the connection with young readers. Communication with children is greatly improved, making this book an engaging and invaluable resource for fostering empathy.
The Power of Empathy is a must-read that empowers children to be the kind, understanding friends they’ve always wanted to be.
Pages: 36 | ASIN: B0BJZ2ZDLX
LITERARY TITAN 