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SELF-Love and Compassion
Petunia the Perfectionist follows a young girl who is determined to achieve perfection in everything, usually forgetting to relax and just have fun. What was the inspiration for your story?
My oldest daughter, now 11, and I have something in common: we are both perfectionists. We strive to be “perfect” in all we do, even at the cost of relaxing and enjoying life more. This has been something I’ve been working on since I was in my 20s, but seeing it in my daughter really hit home: I knew I needed to work harder at letting go of the need to be perfect, so I could model the importance of making mistakes — and learning from our mistakes — for my child. Truly, the book was deeply inspired by her first grade teacher, Ms. Bruce. On their first day of school, Ms. Bruce told the kids that she loves when students make mistakes, because every time you make a mistake, your brain grows. This helped us change the negative narrative around mistake-making, and taught us that making mistakes means we’re trying and learning new things!
Children today are often overwhelmed with social media and seeing “perfection” online, leading to an unrealistic view of themselves. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
While Petunia doesn’t have social media in Petunia the Perfectionst, I agree that this is a huge problem in today’s culture (not just for children, but for adults too!). As I was developing Petunia’s character, I really wanted to portray her as the ultimate perfectionist — the child who is so afraid to make a mistake, that she’ll forgo having fun with her friends and family to read, color inside the lines, practice her guitar for hours, etc. She desperately wants to be perfect. This extreme personality trait was important to me so that when she actually does make a mistake — and realizes that something GOOD comes from it — it makes a bigger impact on readers.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
One major idea I wanted to convey in Petunia the Perfectionist is the importance of having a growth mindset and understanding that mistakes don’t mean we’re failures, but rather that they give us an opportunity to continue to learn and grow. I also wanted to convey the importance of self-compassion. In this book, Petunia lets her friends off the hook for making mistakes, but she won’t do the same for herself. Why? Why does she extend more grace and compassion to others, but holds herself to a higher standard? I want readers to understand the importance of SELF-love and compassion, and know that it’s OK to offer those things to ourselves, too.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
To be determined — but when I’m able to share it with you, I will!
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website
Petunia does not like to make mistakes. In fact, she’ll do just about anything to avoid making one. So instead of enjoying her jam sessions on her guitar, Petunia practices ‘til her fingers ache. And rather than creating art with her crayons, she spends her time color-coding them instead.
Petunia’s so busy trying to be perfect, there’s no time left in her life for being creative or having any fun!
Though Petunia’s mom often reminds her that mistakes are important because they help us learn and grow, Petunia’s not convinced. That is until she makes a mistake that inspires everyone…even herself.
Will Petunia finally understand that it’s okay to make mistakes, and begin to accept herself for who she is – imperfections and all?
This book is PERFECT for perfectionists (children and grown-ups!) and belongs in classrooms, libraries, and every child’s bookshelf.
Why readers will love Petunia the Perfectionist…
Promotes Growth Mindset. Teaches children to view mistake-making as an opportunity for growth and life-long learning.
Encourages Flexible Thinking. Helps children move from rigid, fixed beliefs about making mistakes to more flexible and positive ones; for instance, “People won’t accept/like/love me if I make a mistake,” to “Everyone makes mistakes, and I don’t think less of others when they do.”
Boosts Self-Compassion. Illustrates the importance of offering ourselves the same respect, grace, and kindness we’d extend to others if they made a mistake or faced a challenge.
Builds Resilience. Emphasizes the idea that we learn from our mistakes, which, in turn, helps build confidence and resilience, and gives us the courage to try again or even create something new from our error.
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
Jewel’s Curls: Being Me
In Jewel’s Curls: Being Me by Dr. Shon Shree Lewis, we meet Jewel, a four-year-old girl navigating the complexities of racial identity with innocence and curiosity. The story opens with Jewel grappling with the differences in appearance between herself and her parents. Her mother is White, her father is Black, and Jewel is a blend of both. Her distinct curly hair and unique skin tone raise questions about identity and beauty, questions that many children might ponder.
The narrative is tenderly crafted to address these inquiries through the family’s interactions. Jewel’s mother plays a pivotal role in teaching her daughter about the beauty of diversity and self-acceptance. She explains that Jewel’s unique appearance is a beautiful combination of her parents. To celebrate this, they go on a shopping trip for hair accessories that complement Jewel’s vibrant curls, reinforcing the message of self-love and pride in one’s appearance. Dr. Lewis excels in creating a narrative that is both educational and endearing, perfectly suited for young children aged 2-6. This age range is critical for introducing concepts of diversity and self-acceptance, and Lewis handles this with a gentle yet affirmative touch. The character of Jewel is particularly relatable; she is portrayed as smart and engaging, qualities that will endear her to young readers. The illustrations by K. Stone add a dynamic layer to the tale. Bright and engaging, each illustration not only captures the essence of the moments but also enhances the storytelling, making the book a visual delight that complements the text wonderfully.
Jewel’s Curls: Being Me serves as an excellent resource for children, especially those of mixed heritage, to see themselves represented in children’s literature. It is also the promising start to the “Jewel’s Values” series, offering young readers further adventures with Jewel that promise to be as enriching as they are enjoyable. This book is not only a delightful read but also an important educational tool that comes highly recommended.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0CYW7GJYZ
Opportunities for Growth
Mistakes Are Gifts follows a young boy starting a new school who is anxious about the new and unfamiliar environment. What was the inspiration for your story?
As both a first-grade teacher and an author, I frequently encounter scenarios like the one depicted in the story. The inspiration for Mistakes Are Gifts stems from a specific student who embarked on his educational journey in our school after relocating from England. Witnessing his transformation firsthand, from a newcomer struggling to acclimate to his newfound surroundings to emerging as a top performer in my class, served as a poignant catalyst for this narrative. This heartwarming story underscores the profound impact of self-esteem on the learning process, a testament to the resilience and potential inherent within each child.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
For me, embedding educational aspects in this children’s book was an opportunity to impart valuable lessons that extend beyond academics. I believe that fostering perseverance and instilling a sense of self-belief is pivotal for students as they navigate their educational journey. I specifically wanted to convey to young readers that setbacks and errors are not failures but rather opportunities for growth and improvement. By depicting Luca’s journey of overcoming obstacles and embracing his mistakes as valuable learning experiences, I aimed to instill in children the importance of resilience, adaptability, and a growth mindset. Ultimately, my goal was to create a book that not only entertains but also educates, empowering young readers with valuable lessons that resonate long after they’ve turned the final page.
While this is a children’s book, I feel the message is relevant to older children and adults. What was one scene in the novel that you felt captured the morals and message you were trying to deliver to readers?
Through Luca’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment, readers witness a profound transformation in how he navigates challenges, not just in the classroom but also in his interactions with family, friends, and even his father’s boss. This pivotal scene underscores the timeless lesson that resilience, self-belief, and the willingness to learn from mistakes are invaluable traits that transcend age and circumstance. It serves as a poignant reminder to readers of all ages that embracing mistakes as learning opportunities can lead to personal growth, enhanced confidence, and a more resilient mindset. Ultimately, this scene encapsulates the universal message of Mistakes are Gifts, making it a valuable lesson for both children and adults navigating life’s challenges and uncertainties.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I’m thrilled to share that my upcoming projects will center around a delightful series featuring my mischievous golden retrievers. Each book will not only entertain readers but also impart valuable lessons on empathy and understanding, particularly when our furry friends find themselves in a bit of trouble. Through heartwarming tales and lovable characters, these stories aim to foster a deeper connection between families and their pets while promoting important values like compassion and forgiveness.
As for when fans can expect these charming tales to hit the shelves, I’m working diligently to bring them to life as soon as possible. While I don’t have an exact release date just yet, I’m excited to share more details as the publication process progresses. Stay tuned for updates and sneak peeks into the adventures of these mischievous yet endearing pups!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
My Own Unique Image
The Wonder Wig follows a young girl struggling with her self-esteem due to being uncomfortable with her short hair who discovers wigs and starts to build her confidence. Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your character’s life?
Yes. There was a time in teen life I felt insecure about my hair being shorter than others. I felt wigs would make me look more beautiful. As I became an adult, I learned to accept my own unique image and to value my self-image with my natural hair and length.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Women and young girls’ mental health. Self-esteem. Family relationships, and alopecia awareness and support of those with this medical condition. I want women to feel self-worth and have resources to help them value themselves.
Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
Yes, it is. Likely I will.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Break the Chains
In your memoir Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go, readers will find a deeply personal and emotional account of how divorce and personal loss have affected your life. What motivated you to share your story with the world?
I believe we experience loss and other pain in life in order to heal and then help others. We aren’t supposed to keep it for ourselves. I know there are many people suffering the pain of emotional abandonment, grief, and trauma, and I have found healing and a solution that not only sets me free but gives my life purpose. I’m compelled to share this healing with others. It’s as simple as that…something inside pushes me to help others.
I greatly appreciate the candid and transparent nature of the story you have shared. Would you be able to shed some light on the most arduous aspect of the writing process?
Personally, rewriting Chapter 1, “The Catalyst,” about my brother’s overdose, our childhood memories (some pleasant, others, not so much), my anger about his addiction and death, and eventually how his death set me free, was very difficult. I would find myself in disbelief that I was crying, again. It was also challenging to see the truth of my story. Seeing the reality of some painful events, in black and white, was emotionally draining. In general, I didn’t find the writing process arduous. It was a period of divine inspiration and came quite naturally to me. The hardest part was deciding which parts to keep and which parts to toss. I felt much of what was removed was important, but I had to make very honest decisions about if it added or detracted from the main message and the power of the book. It was a humbling process.
What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger that could have helped you deal with personal loss and grow from these challenges?
You are good, worthy, and loved no matter what. Know that other people’s actions and behaviors are not about you, and you are not responsible for anyone else’s happiness.
I understand that your story is important to you and you want your readers to connect with it. Can you please help me understand what message you want your readers to take away from your story?
Healing your personal pain holds the power to heal the collective. It’s the only power we truly have. Finding comfort in all of your emotions by healing your grief and trauma, building an unshakable foundation of self-worth and self-love, and trusting yourself to show up for yourself in good times and “bad” creates an open heart of unconditional love and compassion, for yourself and others. It’s time to break the chains of generational family dysfunction, address your pain, and do the work to heal. Your life, and the lives of others, depend on it.
Author Links: GoodReads | Instagram | Facebook | Website
Everyone leaves you or hurts you. This false myth of generational family dysfunction, compounded through trauma, appeared frighteningly true to Amanda the moment her brother overdosed and died. Devastated, she shined up the emotional armor she wore to protect herself from pain and soldiered on. But a decade of self-reflection and personal growth in 12-step recovery could not save her from herself. Attempting to destroy everything around her, including her troubled marriage, she experienced a spiritual awakening that radically transformed deeply engrained lies about love, loss, and connection. Lies she didn’t even know she believed.
Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go is a pragmatic yet soulful inspirational memoir delivering uncompromising self-love that heals deep wounds. Amanda’s revealing, thought-provoking narrative will guide you to find comfort in your emotions and meaning in your suffering, while organically bridging an inseverable, trustworthy connection with self, others, and the universe.
Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go
The narrative of Amanda’s life, as depicted in this book, offers a raw and poignant exploration of the impact of divorce and personal loss. Amanda’s journey begins in the wake of her parents’ separation, primarily due to her father’s affair, a situation that significantly alters her familial landscape. The book delves into her deep connection with her brother, Jeremy, who, despite his own struggles with addiction, serves as a crucial pillar of support until his untimely death. Tragically, Amanda faces a series of losses, including the passing of five close individuals within a span of three years.
This book candidly portrays her struggle with alcohol addiction as a coping mechanism and how these experiences leave indelible marks on her life. Particularly moving is how Amanda cherishes memories, such as a shared love for the band Pearl Jam, highlighting the bittersweet nature of remembrance. Amanda’s story is not just about loss and grief but also about resilience and healing. The narrative follows her as she confronts and manages an anxiety disorder, navigates the near breakdown of her marriage, and embarks on a journey toward recovery. The decision to relocate and the challenges of adapting to a new environment without familiar support systems are also explored, showcasing her strength and adaptability. The author’s candidness and emotional depth make this memoir particularly engaging. Amanda’s experiences are conveyed with a sincerity that invites empathy and reflection.
Trust Yourself to Be All In: Safe to Love and Let Go is not just a chronicle of hardships; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s capacity to endure and grow. This book is a compelling read for those interested in memoirs that offer a deeply personal and touching narrative filled with genuine emotion and the triumphs of overcoming life’s adversities.
Pages: 193 | ASIN : B0C4M137BJ
A Growth Mindset Is the Key
I Love How introduces children and their caregivers to the growth mindset praise principle, and how this method benefits and helps children to thrive. Why was this an important topic to write on?
I Love How is the first book in a collection. It was important for this book to be the first as it lays the foundation for a growth mindset, which is a cornerstone for the subsequent books. A growth mindset is the key to unlocking the potential to learn and master the skills presented in the rest of the collection. For benefits from the concepts in my books to be optimized, the parents will also need to be involved and model the behavior. A growth mindset empowers parents and children to embrace the idea that they can continually learn, evolve, and enhance their lives, influencing how they perceive and interact with the world.
How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
Well, that depends on what you mean by research and where you draw the starting line. I spent over 6 years conducting a study on the relationships between grit, success, and retention. Part of that was reviewing the existing literature on those three variables. My Ph.D. specialization is in performance psychology, and my M.Ed is in counseling. I have also spent over 15 years as a therapist, behavioral specialist, school counselor, and coach. So I have been studying, researching, and putting these concepts into practice for close to two decades.
I Love How is the first book in a collection that originated from a training/lecture of mine on psychological skills to help adults thrive. These skills are a collection of well-researched concepts that when practiced regularly, have potent benefits. I adapted some of the key concepts of the training into a collection of short baby books. The books are designed to appeal to very young children and to make parents aware of the benefits of incorporating these concepts into their lives.
So the short answer is the research and preparation were done over a long period and synthesized into a lecture. The books themselves were completed pretty quickly because I already had the concepts ironed out in my head.
As for the design and publishing, that was also pretty fast. My wife is very quick and savvy with design software. She was able to help generate the design that I was going for as well as teach me how to navigate the software. I have also been through the very rigorous process of publishing peer-reviewed academic research which made this process seem much less intimidating. Once I put an idea into action I can usually complete the manuscript and cover files in about a week. I have young children myself so I typically work on projects in the evening after everyone goes to bed.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from I Love How?
My hope is for all of my books to be a valuable resource for both parents and children. While the formats of these books are tailored towards babies, the underlying concepts hold significant benefits for adults. In I Love How, I invite readers to recognize that abilities and intelligence are not fixed attributes; rather, they can be cultivated and enhanced over time through dedicated effort, continuous learning, and perseverance. I hope that readers grasp the impact that fostering a growth mindset can have on their child’s learning journey, realizing the compounding effect it can bring to their overall development. On a more simple level, the books are short and contain images of other young children, this was intentional to appeal to both the reader and the baby. I hope this makes my books a favorite go-to at storytime.
What topic will the next book in that series cover, and when will it be published?
Since the release of I Love How, three additional books in the Growing Minds collection have been published. The second book is titled I’m Grateful, which is about establishing a regular practice of gratitude. The third book is titled Another Great Day, which is about the practice of noticing and savoring the positive things in one’s life. The fourth book is called Reframe, and it is about the skill of taking potential negative situations and shifting one’s perspective into a positive and constructive outlook.
Author Links: Goodreads | Instagram | TikTok | Amazon
The visuals in this book have been intentionally designed to appeal to very young children but it can be enjoyed by older children as well.
About the Author
Dr. Isaiah Varisano is a highly skilled educator, therapist, coach, athlete, and parent. With over 15 years of experience working with thousands of children and students, as well as hundreds of collegiate and professional athletes, Dr. Varisano brings his expertise in performance psychology to help parents and caregivers establish healthy mindsets and communication styles to support children’s thriving development.
LITERARY TITAN 