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Embrace the Power of Family Bonds

Deanna Bussadori Author Interview

Super Big Brother – The Big Brave School Day follows a nervous little girl as she heads off on her first day of school, and her big brother is there every step of the way to help her feel brave. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

My debut book, Super Big Brother: Finding Your Hero, was inspired by my two children. Watching my son naturally step into the role of a mentor to his younger sister—who looked up to him as her hero—deepened my appreciation for their growing sibling bond. This connection inspired me to create stories that reflect the different stages of childhood and the unique relationship between siblings and this lead to the creation of Super Big Brother: The Big Brave School Day.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

The acts of kindness and the special growing milestones the siblings shared became the foundation for my sibling series, weaving in themes of emotional growth, empathy, and support. These were the important messages and ideas I wanted to share. I aspire to write stories that encourage children to be kind, help one another, and embrace the power of family bonds.

What scene in the book did you have the most fun writing?

The scene where Super Sam guides Little Lulu into school is the most special and heartfelt moment for me. It was inspired by a real photo I took of my daughter on her first day of school, with her big brother gently holding her hand and leading her through the school gates. That simple, loving gesture captured the strength of their sibling bond—a moment so touching, it simply had to become part of the story.

What will the next book in that series be about and when will it be published?

The next book in the series, Super Big Brother: New Baby Surprise for Super Big Sister, was published in November 2024. This ten-book series has two more exciting titles set to be released soon. Watch this space! 

Author links: GoodReads Twitter | Facebook | InstagramWebsite

The Big Brave School Day explores the feelings and challenges Lulu the Little experiences on her first day of school. The story is told primarily through the eyes of Lulu the Little who sees her big brother, Super Sam, as her hero. He makes sure that he is right by her side and using his Super Big Brother powers, Super Sam holds her hand, leads her to school, teaches her to be brave, and by the end shows Lulu the Little that SHE is the hero of the day. Super Sam is still the best big brother EVER!

Super Big Brother: The Big Brave School Day

Super Big Brother – The Big Brave School Day follows Lulu the Little as she heads off for her very first day of school. Naturally, she’s nervous, but her big brother, Super Sam, is there every step of the way to help her feel brave. The story gently walks through her rollercoaster of emotions — from the shy walk to class, to belly rumbles before lunch, to playground mishaps — all the way to that touching moment at the end when she wonders if maybe she can lead the way next time. It’s got rhythm, rhymes, and a lot of heart.

As a mom who’s walked her own little one to class with a lump in her throat, this book hit me right in the feels. I loved how real Lulu’s worries felt — that line where her stomach growls and she starts to scowl? Been there. And I adored Super Sam. What a wonderful big brother! He’s not just her guide; he’s her safe place. The moment when he swoops in after she falls on the playground? My heart just melted. It’s such a relatable sibling dynamic, and I could see my own kids in these two. Plus, the writing is so accessible. No big fancy words. Just pure, playful rhymes that are fun to read out loud (and believe me, I read it three times in one night!).

And the illustration are so bright and cheerful. There’s this clever little scavenger hunt built, which kept my daughter totally engaged. She was flipping back through the pages looking for him before I even finished the story. That interactive element made the picture book feel like an experience. I also appreciated the subtle lessons layered in — about being kind, about listening, about building confidence through baby steps.

I’d say this children’s book is a win for any child getting ready for school — and for us moms who are trying not to cry behind our sunglasses at drop-off. It’s especially perfect if your child has a sibling because it celebrates that special bond in such a lovely, respectful way. But even if not, Lulu’s bravery stands all on its own.

Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CLRMGPRS | Blueberry Illustrations

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