Blog Archives
Empathy and Support
A Different Lens follows a young skunk who struggles with his morning routine and schoolwork leading to feelings of frustration and isolation. What was the inspiration for your story?
As an educator and a mother, I have the privilege of connecting with many children. A few years ago, an extraordinary boy with ADHD was going through a particularly challenging period. One day he told me, “Don’t you understand? It doesn’t feel good at all to have a hard time!” It was at this moment my understanding of what Dr. Ross Greene has said, “Kids do well when they can,” moved from my head to my heart. I witnessed how empathy and support changed this child’s life. I also became keenly aware that so many people with invisible disabilities are negatively impacted because their challenges are misunderstood. I wrote this book so that readers of all ages could have the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of someone with an invisible disability. Given this experience, I hope they will see this population through “a different lens,” and be inspired to show patience, empathy, and support.
The art in this book brings the emotions of Simon to life so even younger children can understand what he is experiencing. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Zoe Bendoff?
Partnering with Zoe was a fantastic experience! It was a close collaboration. We live in the same town, so we met throughout the process. I shared hopes for each page, requesting simple images that focused on the emotions of the characters. Zoe blended in her ideas and added her signature style creating beautiful illustrations that truly capture the feelings of each character. She also embedded many personally meaningful “hidden nuggets.” For example, the handwriting in Simon’s journal and the word “Different” in the title are my son’s handwriting. She is extremely talented and was truly a joy to partner with.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
As Dr. Stuart Shanker said, “When you see a child differently, you’ll see a different child.” What may appear to be off-task, attention-seeking, or defiant behavior is often the symptom of an invisible disability and outside the child’s control. Everyone wants to do well. When we assume positive intent and aim to support all children in a way that is individualized to their needs, they can be the best version of themselves. When this happens, those children and everyone around them benefit.
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?
Book number two is in process and will be published in the spring of 2025. It is about a day in the life of one of Simon’s classmates- Robyn. Check back in the spring to find out more!
Author Links: GoodReads | Adori Publishing | Amazon
“A Different Lens” is:
A must-have for every elementary school’s Diverse Book Club list
A book for educators and administrators of 1st-5th grade classrooms supporting social-emotional learning
A resource for parents to teach children about empathy, neurodiversity, and invisible disabilities, such as ADHD.
A tool for enhancing adults’ understanding of the diverse abilities of children within their families, schools, and community
Simon struggles to complete simple tasks at home and school, leading everyone in his world to feel upset and annoyed. Inevitably, Simon’s frustration reaches a boiling point and he makes a huge mistake in front of everyone! How will Simon ever recover? Why can’t he just do better? In the end, readers will realize that Simon, like everyone, is doing the best he can, and with a little support, the world can become a better place for all.
The Case for Values Education
The Case for Values Education delves into the crucial role of education in shaping the future of the United States, presenting it as a pivotal force at a time riddled with division and uncertainty. Author, Rolland B, offers a compelling narrative, arguing that the approach to education could either significantly bolster the nation or, conversely, lead to its downfall. He explores various facets of the educational landscape, from historical developments to the role of education as a social driver, crafting a multi-dimensional discussion that underscores his expertise and thorough research.
Rolland B emphasizes the evolving purpose of education, reflecting the shifting demands of society. He particularly highlights the critical role schools play in nurturing the interpersonal skills of future citizens. A notable strength of the book is its reliance on data, including mission statements from numerous school districts, which supports a well-founded discussion on educational disparities, especially in funding across the K-12 system. The author does not shy away from contentious topics. He argues that the decline in civic and history education has diminished young people’s understanding of democratic principles, a point that ignites fervent debate among educators and policymakers alike. Rolland B’s writing is infused with a mix of passion and lament for the current generation, which he believes is fundamentally disadvantaged by existing educational inequities.
With persuasive language and evident concern, Rolland B not only critiques the status quo but also encourages the reader to advocate for substantial reforms in public education. His approach is both an urgent warning and a rallying cry for broader engagement with educational policy, making The Case for Values Education an essential read for anyone invested in the future of the nation’s education system. It serves as a critical call to action, urging all, regardless of parental status, to influence policymakers and instigate meaningful change.
Pages: 184 | ASIN : B0CVCL2L6W
Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? Unlocking Teen Motivation in School and Life
Are you concerned about your teen’s lack of motivation in school? Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? by Dr. Rebecca Block and Grace Edwards provides a refreshing and practical approach to addressing student apathy. Inspired by a student’s heartfelt plea for help, this insightful book explores the root causes of motivation struggles among teens, primarily focusing on the issue of disconnect.
Rather than placing blame, Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? offers a constructive guide for parents and educators to bridge the gap between teens and their education. Block and Edwards present a wealth of practical strategies to foster meaningful connections and support systems that resonate with today’s youth. This book transcends the often slow pace of systemic change, equipping readers with the tools to build relationships that make teens feel understood and valued. The authors delve into methods that encourage students to take ownership of their learning, helping them see the relevance of schoolwork to their personal goals. Additionally, the book addresses the significant challenge of managing screen time and its impact on student motivation, offering actionable advice on navigating this modern obstacle.
Written in a captivating and accessible style, Can You Help Me Give a Sh*t? is essential reading for anyone committed to improving a teen’s educational experience. It combines real-life stories with research-backed strategies, providing a comprehensive resource that can rekindle a teen’s enthusiasm for learning—and perhaps even reignite your own passion for education.
Pages: 310 | ASIN : B0D2N2319G
Drawing Data with Kids
Drawing Data with Kids is an engaging and informative book that cleverly introduces children to the world of data visualization. Through the charming narrative of Pariza and her data-nerd father, Abbu, readers are taken on a journey where everyday moments are transformed into opportunities to learn about data, graphs, and visual storytelling. The book’s unique blend of storytelling, practical examples, and interactive exercises makes it a fantastic resource for parents, educators, and anyone interested in making data literacy accessible and fun for kids.
One of the most delightful aspects of the book is its storytelling approach. Khan weaves educational content seamlessly into the adventures of Pariza and her family. For example, in the chapter titled “The Snore Graph,” Pariza’s curiosity about her father’s snoring leads to the creation of a line graph. This not only makes the concept of line graphs relatable but also demonstrates how data can be found in everyday life. The stories are both entertaining and educational, capturing the attention of young readers and making complex ideas simple to understand.
The writing is both friendly and engaging, striking the right balance between education and entertainment. Khan’s explanations are clear and concise, making it easy for children to grasp new concepts. The “Time Out” sections provide additional insights and details, helping to reinforce the lessons learned in the stories. For instance, the “Monday Blues” chapter introduces bar graphs using the number of letters in the days of the week, turning a mundane topic into an exciting data exploration.
Another thing I liked about this book is its interactive nature. Each chapter concludes with a “Your Turn to Play” section, encouraging children to apply what they’ve learned through hands-on activities. These exercises are thoughtfully designed to be both fun and educational, ensuring that the lessons stick. For example, children are prompted to create a pie chart using their own data after learning about pie charts in the “Snakes & Ladders” chapter.
Drawing Data with Kids is a wonderful resource for parents and educators looking to introduce children to the world of data visualization in a fun and engaging way. The book’s blend of storytelling, practical examples, and interactive exercises makes it an excellent tool for fostering a love of learning and data literacy.
Pages: 126 | ASIN : B0C66JJ48M
LITERARY TITAN 