AJ is a special fan of my children’s books. Several years ago, he was an early reader/reviewer of Little Children, BIG Feelings, when I was cautiously moving into this new venture of writing books. His thoughtful parents sent me a video of AJ listening intently to the book as his mommy read the story and pointed out the balloon’s “feelings.”
AJ’s “Read it again!” as his mommy turned the last page was my rallying cry. AJ helped me believe that my little book was worthy of being published.
Early this month — on the day before the first day of school — I got a lovely email from AJ’s mommy. He was a bit nervous about starting kindergarten. But they read “BIG Feelings” and also Today Cara Goes to Kindergarten as they prepared for this important day.
The books helped AJ find the words to express his feelings and comforted him to know that Cara had been anxious about going to kindergarten, but that she found her way — and a new friend.
Books are forever friends. Don’t we all have books that speak to us, help us, comfort us?
I am humbled that my little books are forever friends for AJ, and for other little readers who have shared their responses with me.
With the marvelous talents of Jo Ann who brings the words alive with her beautiful illustrations, I’ll keep thinking…about stories for my young friends.
