Children’s / Teenage: Personal and social topics

Book SynopsisHelp little ones grow in faith with this Veggie-filled introduction to God''s constant, loving presence.This encouraging board book proclaims the comforting truth that God is always with us-no matter what. Does your little one get scared of the dark? God is with them in their fear. Do they want God with them when something exciting happens? God''s right there, cheering them on. Do they worry that God will leave them if they mess up? God promises never to leave, no matter what we do. As children learn about God''s presence, they''ll be greeted by simple questions to engage their hearts and minds and help them better understand this core faith concept. Perfectly crafted for little hearts, this sweet book would make a wonderful addition to any toddler''s faith library.

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Book SynopsisHelp little ones learn to live by faith and love others well with this picture book from beloved television stars Jinger and Jeremy Vuolo.This sweet and inspiring book encourages children to let their light shine as they move about the world. As they read along, little readers will be introduced to the fruits of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22–23. Written in lighthearted verse, the story follows a group of children as they model love, joy, patience, peace, and more in everyday, relatable scenarios. This book, straight from the heart of the Vuolos, is perfect for families looking for a faith-based story to share together.

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Book SynopsisLearn all about sharing as flannel-clad ocean friends share their way through this super-silly adventure starring Shark and the letter S.This zany group of animal friends models positive behaviors in stories that will have little ones giggling and joining in to "read" along. Each book focuses on a single letter of the alphabet and uses repetition and humor to explore concepts such as love, sharing, and gratitude.In S Is for Sharing (and Shark!), a toothy shark attempts to learn the art of sharing with his fellow sea creatures, to humorous effect. The simple text tells a cumulative story that builds upon itself with each new S word: "S is for Sharing and Skis and School." The concept of sharing--an important one as children enter classroom and playground environments--is woven throughout, making this title perfect for the back-to-school season. Children will enjoy predicting the repeating elements and recognising the letter S as they learn about sharing with these adorably hip animal friends. Flocking on the cover will enhance the shelf appeal.

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Book SynopsisA spellbinding story about chasing love, fighting family, losing friends and starting all over again, from the internationally acclaimed Lisa Moore.Sixteen-year-old Flannery Malone has it bad. She’s been in love with Tyrone O’Rourke since the days she still believed in Santa Claus. But Tyrone has grown from a dorky kid into an outlaw graffiti artist, the rebel-with-a-cause of Flannery’s dreams, literally too cool for school.Which is a problem, since he and Flannery are partners for the entrepreneurship class that she needs to graduate. And Tyrone’s vanishing act may have darker causes than she realizes.Tyrone isn’t Flannery’s only problem. Her mother, Miranda, can’t pay the heating bills, let alone buy Flannery’s biology book. Her little brother, Felix, is careening out of control. And her best-friend-since-forever, Amber, has fallen for a guy who is making her forget all about the things she’s always cared most about — Flannery included — leading Amber down a dark and dangerous path of her own.When Flannery decides to make a love potion for her entrepreneurship project, rumors that it actually works go viral, and she suddenly has a hot commodity on her hands. But a series of shattering events makes her realize that real-life love is far more potent — and potentially damaging — than any fairy-tale prescription.Written in Lisa Moore’s exuberant and inimitable style, Flannery is by turns heartbreaking and hilarious, empowering and harrowing — often all on the same page. It is a novel whose spell no reader will be able to resist.Trade ReviewMore than a teen romance, this poignant, intimate novel is a thoughtful, mature exploration of the joys — and hazards — of love of all sorts. * Horn Book *Smart, bold, heartbreaking — sophisticated teen readers will be wowed. * Kirkus Reviews *An engaging story and strong purchase with some valuable lessons about love, friendship, and growing up. * School Library Journal *Older teens will identify closely with brave, vulnerable Flannery in her witty, edgy coming-of-age narrative. * Shelf Awareness *Flannery is perfectly planted in the sweet spot of YA writing. It’s good for the smart literary teen and the teen who plows through salacious bestsellers. It’s also for the adult who wants to remember how hard and how beautiful it was to be a teenager. This one is highly recommended. * Quill and Quire *

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Book SynopsisStart the day focused on mindfulness, courage, and positive thinking with the Pixar Inspiration Cards.Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Joy, and many more characters from your favorite Pixar movies share advice, inspiration, and positivity in this 52-card mindfulness deck! Each card contains a memorable quote, a positive affirmation, or an activity inspired by beloved Pixar characters to motivate kids to be mindful, compassionate, and kind. This uplifting deck will inspire and delight fans of all ages! 52 AFFIRMATIONS TO SHARE: Each unique card features an original Pixar-themed affirmation prompt, mindfulness tip, or inspiring quote to share with kids. 32 PAGE BOOKLET: Filled with instructions and thoughtful ideas for how to use the cards for inspiration every day. STURDY CARDS IN TREASURE BOX: Sturdy cards and companion booklet come in a keepsake box and will stand up to use again and again. ENTERTAINING GIFT: Pixar Inspiration Cards is the perfect interactive gift for parents, care givers, and kids who love Pixar films.

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Book SynopsisWhen she gets a fish instead of the giant teddy bear she wanted to win at the carnival, Bear worries they?ll have nothing in common until the unexpected happens. Illustrations.

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Book SynopsisHattie is a street-smart country girl in her first year of school. She lives just outside of nowhere, right next to no one at all. Luckily she’s starting school and that brings new adventures. Hattie gets her first swimming badge, falls madly in love with a hermit crab and meets a best friend. Sometimes things go wrong—like when the hairdresser cuts her hair into stumps just in time for school photos. And while Hattie tries her best, it’s not always easy to be well behaved... Hattie is perfect for newly independent readers from Frida Nilsson, whose award-winning The Ice Sea Pirates was an international bestseller.Trade Review"Hattie reminded me of audacious Pippi Longstocking – but Hattie is her own extraordinary self, and she’s excellent company." -- NZ Poetry Box – Paula Green"The simple, very expressive illustrations done in pen and ink and outlined in black add much to enjoying the adventures of this little girl. This story would make a good read-aloud for 1st or 2nd graders." -- Youth Services Book Review"Hattie proves to be a memorable heroine with an impulsive streak and a nose for trouble and is somewhat reminiscent of that other Scandinavian mischief maker Pippi Longstocking. The school story is a familiar one in children’s literature, but Hattie’s tale is told in a fresh, funny and oh-so-relatable way. Her worries and fears will be familiar to all readers, big and small, and her empathetic reactions to the situations in which she finds herself make this a realistic and engrossing read. Nilsson is a master at making you see the world through her characters’ eyes, and Hattie is a character to be celebrated in this charming, funny and relatable book. With quirky and amusing illustrations by Stina Wirsén, Hattie is a pure delight from start to finish and will be eagerly gobbled up by young readers everywhere." Reviewed by Brenda Frawley -- INIS Magazine"There is much to love about this loud-talking, large-hearted, scamp of a girl. Her spirit blinds you with its brilliance. Humour bubbles through every candid utterance and through every artless thought until your tummy wobbles with mirth. Frida Nilsson's masterful portrayal of a primary-schooler in their prime is both funny and poignantly on point." -- Dimity Powell - Dim’s Write Stuff"The combination of storytelling style and gentle setting, led by a girl with a big heart who just seems to get it wrong now and then, really reminded me of my childhood favourite Pippi Longstocking. The narrative is simple but gloriously nostalgic and charming. It’s a super choice for children near the beginning of their independent reading journey as each chapter gives them the fulfilment of a whole story. I also adore the quirky style of Stina Wirsen’s illustrations which adorn the pages throughout. This is a brilliant example of why we should be bringing more books in translation to our shores and our bookshelves." -- Kate Poels writes"Hattie’s cover T-shirt “Watch Out” sets the tone for Hattie’s adventures. Many of Hattie’s escapades are rebellious but she is often the one who tones down her behaviour or recognises her own failings and does something to correct them. Short chapters make this book inviting to younger readers. Sentence structure is simple but not simplistic. There are occasional black line drawings which enliven the text." -- The Children’s Book Council of Australia Reading Time"While Hattie is a mischievous child prone to dramatizing and over thinking situations, she is an endearing character. She has a very contrite and caring side when she realizes she has gone too far. It is an easy to read story with short chapters and would be a great read aloud story for Junior Primary students. The simple illustrations by Stina Wirsen are spaced throughout the text and make a welcome addition to the story." -- Readplus"It’s a completely wild ride – from hysterical laughing to nail-biting nerves, Hattie puts you through your paces. For a large part this is because she is a huge troublemaker. Yet what makes her antics so amusing is that her impulsiveness leads them to (nearly) go very wrong – Hattie gets a little more than she bargained for! Frida Nilsson is a worthy successor to the great Astrid Lindgren, and indeed Hattie could very easily be this generation’s Pippi Longstocking." Readings -- Jeremy George works as a bookseller at Readings Malvern"Readers are sure to be endeared to Hattie’s independent spirit. The simple line pen and ink drawings by Stina Wirsén are comical and expressive and help to capture the loveable Hattie and her antics. Hattie is the perfect series for newly independent readers." -- Outside in World"Youngsters around Hattie’s age will surely love reading about, or hearing of, her escapades; this is a girl with a thirst for fun, a total charmer who just doesn’t stop and think about the consequences of her actions before plunging straight in. She does though pause for thought, reflect and take on board the lessons learned. The occasional line drawings by Stina Wirsén are a sheer delight too." -- Red Reading Hub"Hattie is from the Pippi Longstocking school of clever, anti-establishment little girls who have the capacity for misrule until their conscience kicks in, their hearts turn to fondant and they return to the path of righteousness (while avoiding piety)… the translator, Julia Marshall, has done the story proud; it’s told with elegant precision and Nilsson has a peculiar power to make you remember exactly what it was like to be small, fierce, disempowered and six . . . even when you’re 46." -- The Times"A young mischief-maker manages to get herself out of mishaps. Six-year-old Hattie lives with her loving parents in a red house in Sweden. Their town is "far out in the middle of nowhere." Hattie loves that she's started school. She rides on the bus, does well, and makes friends. Each brief chapter in this gently comical novel describes various escapades Hattie gets up to, often alone, sometimes with her best pal. Readers will be intrigued by Hattie's adventures and will note that each one offers a glimpse into her conscience and lively, persevering personality. Not coincidentally, the incidents advance Hattie's character development, though she remains a child her age. Like most kids, Hattie can be peevish, has a playful, creative imagination, enjoys testing her limits, and doesn't usually foresee or understand the consequences of impulsivity. Still, when events don't conclude the way she'd hoped or planned, Hattie gets sad, angry, or annoyed with herself, learning lessons probably no grown-ups could teach better. Readers will note Hattie's rarely scolded; however, adults are often oblivious to her activities, and she does chide herself. This fast-paced, amusing charmer, with clipped sentences that promote quick reading, is a Swedish import via New Zealand and offers interesting insight into some Nordic customs. Loose black-line illustrations add humor and suggest that all characters are white. An interview with the author appears in the backmatter. Readers will appreciate getting to know Hattie." (Fiction. 7-10) -- Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisI always wanted a dog, but Mum said I wasn't allowed.So I got one anyway.My secret dog lives in the cupboard and we sneak out at night to play.We'll be best friends forever.As long as Mum doesn't find out...Trade ReviewBeautifully understated and full of whimsy, My Secret Dog depicts a child's sense of slowly discovering that getting what they want is not as straight forward as it might first appear. It also made my son giggle through his bedtime story. -- Richy K. Chandler, writer, illustrator and creator of the weekly webcomic Lucy the Octopus, Fairytale Manga Rosie and Jacinda and the Tempo Lush Tales contemporary comics anthologies.

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Book SynopsisOnce upon a time, in a peaceful kingdom far away, there lived a knight (in training). This knight was never ever seen without their armour. In fact, nobody even knew what they looked like under their helmet. Why would they remove their armour? You never know what might happen. What if there was suddenly a war, or an exploding volcano, or they fell and scraped their knee?!The Nervous Knight shows what childhood anxiety can look like, while helping to normalise it and show children (ages 5+) that they can do the things they care about despite their worries. It also contains a guide for parents and professionals, giving expert advice on how to use the book to aid discussions on this topic.Trade ReviewWith gentle humor and bold, fun illustrations, this gem of a book normalizes the fear of something going wrong and teaches children how to move forward anyway. The book is funny, inclusive, appealing and accurate: a winning combination sure to help young worriers. -- Dawn Huebner, Clinical Psychologist and Bestselling author of 'Outsmarting Worry' and 'What To Do When You Worry Too MuchBeautifully written, imaginatively illustrated and full of practical ideas to enable nervous young knights to begin to remove their anxiety armour. -- Dr Pooky Knightsmith, Director of Creative Education and author

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Book SynopsisA simple, engaging story introducing ideas of non-binary identities, tolerance and acceptance to very young readers, from the writer of the critically acclaimed picture book, The Pocket Chaotic. Praise for Alex and Alex ''What a fun book for illustrating gender fluidity! With its polka dot endpapers and bright primary colors, this cheerful book shows that gender does not matter to good friends''. -- Youth Services Book Review ''Need many more books like this one for young children!'' -- Net Galley ''Alex and Alex is brilliant in its simplicity. I can't recommend it highly enough!'' -- Picture Book Perfect ''What a wonderful book that I think every child making their first steps socially should have read to them''. -- The Great British Bookworm ''The lack of gender and deliberate avoidance of stereotypes makes this a useful book to help children think more about what allows people to get along and like each other''. -- School Reading List ''Definitely the best book I have come across that sensitively discusses the concept of being non-binary without preaching or taking away from the playful plot for children''.-- The Value's Bookshelf Alex and Alex have lots of things in common. They love playing, and dressing up and building things. They also are very different to one another; Alex is very messy and Alex is very tidy, Alex likes running and kicking a ball and Alex likes reading and dreaming. After a trip to the museum goes a little bit awry, Alex and Alex have some cooling off time. But they always make up because Alex really really really really really really REALLY…. likes Alex! This is a book for very young readers introducing ideas of tolerance and friendship in a completely non-gendered way. Neither character is identified as a boy or a girl, and the activities that each one enjoys is a mix of traditional ‘boy’ and ‘girl’ things Aimed at children who are just at the cusp of gender awareness and role-play, it provides a much needed counter-balance to more traditional, binary pre-school literature. Boldly illustrated by Ben Javen.

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Book SynopsisHave you ever wondered why trees are important? Why do we need to protect them? Tree Full of Wonder is a vibrant, rhyming, educational and unique picture book showing the unbreakable bond between people and trees. Children will fall in love with nature and will become Protectors of the Trees.Mindful stories for kids create a brighter and calmer future, one child at a time.Through included, simple information, breathtaking illustrations and worksheets at the end, children will discover:- Why trees are important and useful to us.- What can we do to protect them.- How to recognise common trees.Buy your copy now and discover the wonder of trees!

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Book SynopsisUnderstanding the roots of anger and encouraging appropriate and acceptable ways of expressing this are essential skills for anyone working with young people. Working with Anger and Young People warns against 'quick fix' solutions to dealing with anger, and draws on the author's experiences of youth counselling and training workshops to propose helpful interventions for addressing anger effectively and moving on from it.From attachment anxieties and feelings of powerlessness, to frustration at difficult family relations, Nick Luxmoore considers the common reasons for young people's anger during this difficult stage of their development. Through accounts of his work with a range of young people, he offers tried-and-tested exercises and talking points to help work through common counterproductive responses to anger such as antisocial behaviour and physical or verbal violence. Crucially, he also recognises the needs of those working with these young people with anger problems and provides advice on working safely, maintaining control and achieving job satisfaction.This sensitive, accessible book will be an informative and engaging resource for anyone working with young people with anger issues.Trade Review`This is an extremely readable book that struck a chord because many young people are faced with the dilemma of managing their emotions while trying to find the time to fulfil their educational potential… It is a sensitive and thought-provoking book written by a psychodrama psychotherapist whose skills might be applied to reach resolutions for some pupils. It would be encouraging to know that the young people who need such support might have access to the expertise suggested. Resolution of such emotional upheaval is time consuming and required a skilled approach. Many young people do not have the opportunity to be heard effectively, resulting in the escalation of their confusion, frustration and anger, the consequences of which could be dangerous. It may be that reading this book and reminding ourselves of the various issues would be a step towards finding a solution for some angry young people.' -- BATOD Magazine`This is a marvellous, generous book. Schools are desperate to understand more about anger and I would hope that this book will be read and enjoyed by lots of people working in this context…this book is about anger, but more than that it is about coming alive emotionally, hope in a difficult world, and how radical counselling in schools can be when it touches all parts of the system.' -- Oxford Psychotherapy Journal.`This book challenges the assumption that anger management is the solution to anger expressed in unhealthy or unacceptable ways. It promotes instead the concept of listening to and working with anger rather than suppressing it, or managing it down to acceptable levels.The role of adults and the interactions between adults and young people are described with insight and good humour. I particularly liked the inclusion of the two school caretakers amongst the array of adults and the description of how and why their attitudes mattered. In one of the most insightful passages the author describes the bravery that is required of adults in facing up to the threat of anger and that this is vital to young people. `Otherwise they are left with a power which is disturbing - the power to control adults'. When this happens, young people feel unsafe… I recommend this as a resource for all operational disciplines in the prison service. The benefit to those working with young people is obvious, but it would also be a useful read to help understand anger, or disruptive behaviour in any setting.' -- Safer Custody News`I enjoyed this book and will use many suggestions from it.' - www.adoption-net.co.uk`An examination of the causes of young people's anger and of ways to support them while maintaining control of the situation and working safely.' - BILD Current Awareness Service`From attachment anxieties and feelings of powerlessness to frustration at difficult family relations, the author considers the common reasons for young people's anger at this difficult stage of their development.' -- Human Givens Magazine 2006`The author offers interesting exercises and talking points for working through common counterproductive responses to anger, such as antisocial behaviour and physical or verbal violence.' -- Human Givens Magazine 2006The book can be recommended, and is likely to be of considerable interest to anyone undertaking counselling services with young people. It could, perhaps and should, be read by anyone asked to undertake anger management work with schools. -- The British Psychological SocietyThis sensitive, accessible book will be an informative and engaging resource for anyone working with young people with anger issues. -- Handicap InfoThe author, a psychotherapist, is well experienced in delivering anger management classes to young people and professionals... Written in plain, no nonsense approach, this book is as accessible to professionals as it is to parents keen to help young people channel their rage.' -- Child RightTable of Contents1. Introduction. 2. The anger of professionals. 3. Anger as a defence. 4. Anger unexpressed. 5. Anger exploding. 6. Anger, attendance and attachment. 7. Anger and disappointment. 8. Anger and identity. 9. Anger and envy. 10. Anger, violence and empathy. 11. The anger of professionals (again). 12. References. Subject index. Author index.

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Book Synopsis"Draw me a picture of what you would look like if you turned into a monster." Dennis McCarthy's work with distressed or traumatized children begins with an exercise that is simple but very effective: he invites the child to communicate with him in their own way, through the non-verbal language of play.Using case studies from his clinical experience and with numerous children's monster drawings, McCarthy lets the meaningful self-expression of the child take centre stage. He demonstrates that being allowed to play, move and draw impulsively and creatively in the supportive presence of the therapist is in fact the beginning of the therapeutic process. These activities are shown to be more therapeutic for the child in practical terms than the interpretation of the clues it provides about the child's state of mind.This very accessible book will be inspiring reading for play therapists and other professionals working therapeutically with young children and their families.Trade ReviewI would recommend If You Turned Into a Monster not only to therapists who work with children but to teachers and parents. The book is written with the kind of compassion that makes you want to read more. -- Counselling Children and Young PeopleDennis McCarthy's beautifully written book, If You Turned Into a Monster, might seem directed towards professional therapists, but its truths are universal. The wisdom of Mr. McCarthy, his gentle empathy, his reflections on myth, psychoanalysis, Bioenergetics, and his own struggles with childhood grief, will enlighten every reader. In jargon-free language, it explores the inner world of children in crisis, and reveals their incredible capacity not only to survive traumas, but - with the help of an insightful and caring therapist like Mr. McCarthy - to regain wholeness, reshaping their inner lives as they draw pictures, tell stories, and build up, break down, and remake their sand creations. It is thoughtful, funny, compassionate, filled with insights, and when you finish it, you will be rewarded with a desire to better understand your own mysteries, your `monsters', your true treasures of the self. -- J. Scott Morgan, fiction and non-fiction writerSupporting traumatised children through play, rather than focusing predominantly on interpreting and reacting to their behaviour, is the key tenet of a book by Dennis McCarthy informed by his work as a therapist with young people.If you Turned into a Monster: Transformation through Play: A Body-Centred Approach to Play Therapy, draws on case studies from his own work. The author argues that games such as asking a child to "draw a picture of what you would look like if you turned into a monster," allow for non-verbal communication of the child's mental state and offer practical therapeutic benefits in their own right. -- Professional Social WorkIn this book for therapists working with traumatised children, psychotherapist Dennis McCarthy explains his method of asking children to draw him a picture of what they would look like if they turned into a monster. The idea is to invite children to communicate with him using the non-verbal language of play. McCarthy uses case studies and children's monster drawings to show that being allowed to play in the presence of a therapist is the start of the therapeutic process. -- Children Now MagazineI recommend this book not only to therapists who work with children but especially to parents and teachers... [T]his book pushes past the complexities of psychological theory and jargon... [I]t is rare to find a therapist who has the sensitivity and skill to create...a safe and sacred psychological space...in which children feel free to allow their monsters into the room... Dennis McCarthy clearly has this gift... -- from the foreword by Richmond K. Greene, Jungian analyst and former director of the C.G. Jung Institute in New York CityWith a great deal of love, compassion, and wisdom Dennis McCarthy chronicles the lives and stories of children and their monsters in his book on transformation through play. The best stories always give specific details (this child, this particular situation, this problem) while also telling the universal stories which are meant for everyone, everywhere. This is that kind of important book of life stories. -- Gioia Timpanelli, author of Sometimes the Soul: Two Novellas of Sicily (Winner of the National Book Award) and 'Dean of American story telling'I found Dennis McCarthy's description of his energetic work with children fascinating reading. He has an unusual sensitivity and a solid comprehension of the emotional conflicts children have. His therapy is simple but highly effective based as it is on understanding the child's need to discharge his negative aggressivity safely.I recommend this book to parents, teachers and child therapists. They will enjoy reading it as well as learning from it. -- Dr. Alexander Lowen, creator of Bioenergetic Analysis and author of The Language of the BodyA therapist needs to open to the use of a wide variety of techniques and ideas, cognitive as well as cathartic acting out. The reader prepared to learn from a wise and seasoned therapist how to include innovative techniques in his armamentarium of tools to help release children from their emotional bondages will find nuggets of treasure as well as pleasure in the therapy stories recounted by the author. -- PsycCritiquesThe book is a clear exposition of effective treatment and I recommend it for the fascinating journey through cases with specific details and impressive results'. -- International Institute for Bioenergetic Analysis JournalTable of ContentsForeword by Richmond K. Greene. A Note on the Text. Introduction. 1. "If You Turned into a Monster" 2. Symbols and Symbolic Play. 3. From Symbol to Energy. 4. Energy. 5. The Power of No. 6. Falling and Leaping. 7. Interlude with Monsters. 8. Form and Formlessness. 9. Harnessing Chaos: Helping Children with Neurological Disorders. 10. Bacoming the Storm: Using the Energy of Symptoms. 11. Finding the Treasure. 12. Closing Scenes. 13. The Dragon. 14. Mothers and Fathers. Epilogue: In the Footsteps of Pan. References. Recommended Reading. Index.

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Book SynopsisDid you know that we humans are monitored by Mouseweb International, a worldwide network of mice working undercover to lend a paw whenever we need it most?This is the story of Lily Jane Watson, a 13-year-old in desperate need of some help from the spies at Mouseweb International Department 29 (MI29). Operating out of the lost property cupboard at Abbotsford airport, Agent Windsor Smith and his family devise a clever plot to come to her rescue. But with Mr Clamp, the airport manager, laying traps and a crafty gang of rats attempting to scupper their plans, will MI29 succeed? Can technology, cunning, and courage change the world or will the nasty rats take control?This action-packed story is perfect for children aged 8+, including those affected by illness or disability, and encourages community spirit and tolerance of diversity and difference.Trade ReviewMI29 - Mouseweb International to the Rescue! is a delightful story of how super-agent mice help those in need. It goes beyond a whimsical tale to challenge readers to see how they too can 'spy' out the needs of others and come to the rescue. S. J. Tozer has woven a thought provoking message into a story that kids will love to read. -- Kathy Hoopmann, author of All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome, All Dogs Have ADHD, Haze, Bluebottle Mystery: An Asperger Adventure, and moreAgent Windsor Smith and his resourceful family set out to help Lily who has a rare illness. This is a heart-warming story full of adventure, which all children will love, but especially those who have to face the challenges of living with chronic illness. I wish we all had access to Mouseweb International Department 29 to sort out life's problems! -- Sharon Dempsey, journalist and author of Extreme Parenting: Parenting Your Child with a Chronic IllnessThis fascinating tale will introduce children to a world which shows care and compassion as a natural and everyday thing. Read it with your children and you won't be disappointed. -- Cathy Bell, MA, Chair of BACP Children & Young People, Co-ordinator of the ICSS in Northern Ireland, Social Worker, counsellor, clinical supervisor and trainerThis delightful story of Sydney and his mouse family is both exciting, funny and heartwarming. As well as having a smell and taste for adventure ('like a pungent cheddar'!), it shows the care Sydney and the team from MI29 have for those who need help. The imagery is charming (such as the young mice having fun by rubbing soap on their paws so they can 'skate' along the wash basins), and the plot ingenious. I hope this is just the start of many adventures of a very caring Sydney mouse and Mouseweb International! -- Melinda Edwards, MBE, Consultant Clinical Psychologist at the Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust and author of Promoting Psychological Well-Being in Children with Acute and Chronic Illness

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Book Synopsis"Want to know something else about me? I am Billy Bramble: the King, the President and the Emperor of Bad Lucksville. I am the Chief Executive of Bad Luck Limited, the Bad Luck Champion of the World, the Bad Luck Guinness World Record holder and it's all thanks to my invisible dog Gobber. He's my Bringer of Bad Luck."Billy Bramble likes rude words, smelly farts, loud farts and freestyle sneezing but when BAD THINGS happen, his invisible angry dog Gobber barks in his ears, gives him brain mash and breaks things. One day a competition is announced at school - The Great Big Cook Off - can Billy Bramble defeat Gobber and change his epic bad luck? An irreverent story for children aged 8-12 about a less than perfect boy, this book will inspire any child who's ever secretly thought they might be less than perfect too.Trade ReviewBilly Bramble is a fantastic book. It gives you an insight into people who may struggle and how their surroundings can influence their behaviours and attitudes. Billy Bramble is a nice boy with an angry, imaginary dog. Together they battle with certain feelings. I believe everyone can learn something from this book, not least that through persisting, eventually, in spite of hardship, you can achieve. -- Coby, 12Brilliant and thoughtful insight into the mind of an eleven year old and the wonderful power of cooking. -- Lorraine PascalePoor Billy seems to get everything wrong. However hard he tries, somehow or another things never work out well. And secretly Billy knows why - it's him, there is something wrong with him. Sally Donovan's deeply felt story gives us a glimpse of how hard it is for Billy to keep trying and hoping that things might be different. He seems actively to push away all attempts to help him and the adults struggle to know how to do anything of use. With his tricky dog by his side Billy doesn't know how to be close. Until the Cook Off. The accumulation of the months and years of stubborn care provided by kind adults starts to break through and we see the vulnerable parts of Billy (which have been there all along) begin to emerge.This moving and psychologically sound story encapsulates many key themes expressed by vulnerable children and paints a vivid picture of the seeming impossible dilemmas they may be facing. Compelling for children, this book will also be of great value to adults as through Billy they gain insight into the risks children face when they begin to dare to trust. -- Dr Vivien Norris, Consultant Clinical PsychologistI like the way Billy has an invisible dog. It is one of the best books I have read. -- Sophie, 13I love Billy - he is funny and cool and awesome and I understand him. I think he was very brave for entering the competition. The story made me laugh a lot. -- JBThe book shows even if you are different you can achieve. -- Jordan, 14The story is good. It makes you want to read on. -- Adam, 12I liked the character of Billy. -- Thomas, 13An inspiring read which will encourage children to get cooking in order to make delicious food and also gain confidence in their own abilities. -- Jo Ingleby, BBC Cook of the Year 2015 and Chef in Residence at Redcliffe Children's Centre

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Book SynopsisSpectrum gals, ever wished you had a handbook to help navigate the confusing world of teenage girlhood? Look no further! Aspie-in-the-know, Jennifer Cook O'Toole provides just that with her inspirational guide to life for teenage girls with Asperger syndrome. Drawing on her own, real-life experiences rather than preaching from textbooks, she covers everything you need (and want!) to know, from body shapes and love interests to bullying, friendships and how to discover and celebrate your unique, beautiful self. With illustrations by an Aspie teen and inspirational quotes from well-known, female Aspie voices, including Temple Grandin, Rudy Simone, Robyn Steward, and Haley Moss, Sisterhood of the Spectrum is your perfect companion on the "yellow brick road" to womanhood. It will leave you empowered, informed and excited to be different.Trade ReviewAs a psychologist specializing in working with females with ASD, I am truly privileged to see sparks of great beauty daily; the girls and young women I meet and work with amaze me with their caring, their talents, and their resilience. And yet too often they do not see it themselves. O'Toole's Sisterhood is an 'at last' gift I can return to them - a safe invitation for every young woman to read and journey through while getting to know herself. For any girl on the spectrum who has felt alone, like she is the only one, Sisterhood is a chance for her to crack open her heart and let a small voice whisper - 'that's like me.' Thank you, thank you Jennifer a thousand times over for this beautiful bursting book that I cannot wait to share! -- Shana Nichols, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist, Owner, Director and Researcher, ASPIRE Center for Learning and DevelopmentI picked up this book, and could literally not put it down until I had read it through. As a developmental pediatrician, I frequently identify children with autism and address their needs. I am relieved to find such an engaging resource specifically geared towards the population of girls becoming women. Jennifer O'Toole has created a witty, insightful, and memorable guide to the workings of the young female mind. No clinician, parent, or young woman affected by autism should be without this book. -- Wendy J. Ross, MD, CNN Hero, FAAP Director, Center for Pediatric Development, and Founder, Autism Inclusion ResourcesI have been deeply moved by the meaning Jennifer gives to what I thought were my everyday experiences and it is my belief that though the primary audience of this book may be girls on the spectrum, others will find great value in the words, findings, and experiences of the vibrant Jennifer Cook O'Toole. Because no matter if we fall within the spectrum, are navigating the cusp, or we find ourselves elsewhere, aren't we all wired just a little bit differently? -- Amy Serrano, Glamour Magazine “Woman of the Year,” Internationally-Celebrated Filmmaker, Writer & HumanitarianSisterhood of the Spectrum is a smart, cheeky, authentically unique read for ALL girls. Just like she does in her other Asperkids books, Jennifer entertains and inspires and makes the reader feel as if she is talking just to them... because she is! The numerous empowering messages throughout the book such as, 'A candle doesn't lose its flame when it lights another candle' leave the reader feeling heard and remind all woman that we matter and are perfect just the way we are! If you have a tween/teen or young adult daughter, granddaughter, sister or friend you will want them to read this book. -- Zoom Autism magazineSisterhood of the Spectrum is over-the-top awesome in every way. There were times it actually made me cry with its dead-on description of the truth. Simply by inviting spectrum girls to connect with their own sisterhood, it makes a huge contribution, and that's just the beginning. With humor, directness, wisdom and honesty, this book packs spectrum girls' tool kits with what they need to grow and thrive while discovering their true selves. I couldn't put it down and can't wait to buy it for myself and share it with every clinician and every family and every girl I know who's part of this powerful and gifted community. As a psychologist with the honor and privilege of working with Aspie girls, I am deeply grateful to Jennifer Cook O'Toole for this treasure of a guidebook. -- Carol Moog, PhD, co-author of The Autism Playbook for Teens, psychologist, The Miquon School and in private practiceAuthor Jennifer Cook O'Toole shares her own experiences as a woman on the spectrum and has used each memory (which she relates with zingy humour and brash honesty) to illustrate the pain and pitfalls of being misunderstood as a girl and later as a young woman...her captivating stories have been cherry-picked to illustrate common difficulties experienced by spectrum girls. Jennifer's handbook shows her readers everything they need to know to shore up their own confidence, social awareness and personal resilience...the author's buddy-like tone is really engaging; she's the wise big sister you'll keep returning to for advice and support...this is the holy grail for girls on the spectrum. I'm not kidding, either. -- Debby Elley * AuKids Magazine *Table of Contents(A Beautiful Idea). This Calls for a Rewrite. The Microphone: Let Me Hear Your Voice, Spectrum Girls. Quotealicious Page #1. Mini-Chapters. 1. Spelunking: Discovering the Typical Diamond You Already Are. 2. Follow the Yellow Brick Road: Why You Don't Need a GPS to “Find Yourself”. 3. No Spoilers, Sweetie: A Story about Stories…And a Relay Race. 4. Let Me Introduce You…to Yourself. 5. Playing Dominoes In Reverse: Know Where You Want to Go If You Want to Get There. 6. Decisions, Decisions: What You Choose IS What Continues. 7. “No” Is a Complete Sentence: People Pleasing vs. Pleasing Yourself. 8. Anxiety: The Nemesis of All Awesomeness. Something Special: The Box on the Shelf. 9. You Cannot Actually Die of Embarrassment. 10. Blanching at Perfectionism: Real Girls Aren't Perfect. And Perfect Girls Aren't Real. Less Stress – More You (Alternatives to Self-Harm). Something Special: Daisy's Lesson. Quotealicious Page #2. 11. Sexuality: The Venn Diagram They Didn't Teach in School. 12. No 'Right' Way to 'Be a Girl.' 13. The Question Box: Why THAT Would Be a Good Idea (Or Not). 14. Body Blow: How You “Measure” Up. 15. Function over Form: Your Shape, Senses…and Bras. 16. Why Romeo and Juliet is Not a Love Story. 17. Danger Signs. 18. The Particulars: Falling in Like with Your Eyes Wide Open. Quotealicious Page #3. Something Special: The Evil Twins. 19. Ain't I a Woman: Girl. Power. For All. 20. Bullies, Mean Girls, and Stuff that Actually Works. Need-to-Know-and-Believe Bullet Point Recap. Your Song. Resources (Actual. Resources. Please trust them. Please use them).

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Book SynopsisMolly's mother is not like other mothers: she rides a yellow bike and collects herbs and makes potions, perhaps even magical potions...

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Book SynopsisAlthough Tyrannosaurus storms around saying that power is everything in the world, he realizes he is getting weaker with age. After his tail gets bitten in a run-in with Masiakasaurus, some young Triceratops nurse him back to health. Touched by their innocent hearts, Tyrannosaurus begins to feel love for these new friends–even though he might have eaten them under different circumstances! So when two Giganotosaurus attack the group, Tyrannosaurus fights them off, holding the children tightly to his body, and sacrificing himself in order to protect them from the Giganotosaurus. The third title in this acclaimed series, I Want That Love explains that love is far more important than power. AGES: 5 to 7 AUTHOR: Tatsuya Miyanishi graduated from the Nihon University College of Art and was a doll artist and graphic designer before becoming a picture-book author. Miyanishi's books have a passionate fan base of all ages that enjoys his range of endearing characters in many genres, from superheroes to dinosaurs. He has won the Kodansha Cultural Award for Picture Books, as well as the Kenbuchi Picture Book Grand Prize.

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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